Listen to the call of the trumpets...    Feel the beat of the drums...       Hear the wail of the pipes...

Fri, April 30, 7:30 pm Sat, May 1, 7:30 pm Sun, May 2, 2:30 pm Scope Arena, Norfolk

Experience the music, majesty, and might of the
14th Annual Virginia International Tattoo

Watch a cast of performers from six countries in a centuries old Scottish tradition with a 21st century American soul. Each year's Tattoo is different, with new performers from across the globe, new themes of honor and patriotism, and state of the art technical effects which will leave you breathless. What never changes – the spectacle of the massed pipes and drums, a profound sense of pride in country and an awe-inspiring finale. Presented in cooperation with Nato and Norfolk Nato Festival

This video requires the Flash Player plugin and a web browser with JavaScript enabled. Amazing Grace - 2009 Finale

Click here for 2010 Cast & Multimedia

About Virginia International Tattoo

In the old days, field musicians were vital to commanders as the sole means of relaying orders during battle. For marching, the bands kept the company or regiment in proper cadence, and served to beat the daily duty calls and ceremonies such as Reveille, Taps, the General, the Assembly and the Retreat. The distinctive and colorful uniforms were necessary to distinguish them easily on the battlefields, and were often the reverse color of those worn by the line soldiers.

The term "tattoo" derives from the cries of the 17th and 18th century Low Country innkeepers, who, as the fifes and drums of the local regiment signaled a return to quarters would cry, "Doe den tap toe!" -"Turn off the taps!" The sound of the "taps" caused the innkeeper's customers to depart and return to their barracks. The word "tattoo" evolved over time, and refers to what developed as a ceremonial performance of military music by massed bands today.

Virginia International Tattoo Fast Facts

What is a Tattoo

Tattoos have evolved from a European tradition dating back to the 17th Century. They are ceremonial performances of military music by massed bands. Each Tattoo is different and influenced by the culture of the country in which they are presented. Most Tattoos now include civilian entertainment as well as military bands and emphasize the inclusion of performers from nations outside of the host nation.

The Virginia Arts Festival is a non-profit organization that was established in 1997. Each spring, internationally acclaimed artists from around the globe team up with the best of the region's own professional arts organizations to present a dazzling lineup of music, theatre and dance.

Presented annually in Norfolk, Virginia, the Virginia International Tattoo is an exhibition of marching bands, massed pipes and drums, drill teams, gymnasts, Scottish dancers, choirs and more. Each year, a cast of over 800 artists from several countries creates an unforgettable spectacle under one roof for four breathtaking performances. The Virginia International Tattoo is the largest show of its kind in the United States.

Virginia International Tattoo Mission Statement

To produce and present a world-class international event that will honor our nation's military, celebrate American freedom and patriotism, educate youth, attract visitors to Hampton Roads, strengthen international relations and enhance the quality of life for the people of Hampton Roads.

Other Virginia International Tattoo Fast Facts:

25+ Staff travel from as far away as Hawaii, Canada and Scotland to participate
96+ Hours of rehearsal
100+ Volunteers (But more are needed!)
4,000+ Hotel room nights
18,000+ Students will experience the Tattoo or one of its in-school events
19,000+ Meals
30,000 Expected in attendance
1,000,000+ miles in travel for cast and crew to Norfolk

CONTACT:
J. Scott Jackson, Producer/Director, P.O. Box 3595, Norfolk, VA 23514 sjackson@vafest.org

Potential Groups:

Do you have a group that is a perfect fit for the Virginia International Tattoo?
Send a press kit including audio/video or a link to:
Jennifer Hafner
P.O. Box 3595, Norfolk, VA,
23514 USA
jhafner@vafest.org

Volunteers:

Volunteers play a vital part in making the Virginia International Tattoo a success! Get the great feeling that comes with being part of an internationally acclaimed show and working with performers from around the world! See what goes on behind the scenes. Meet new people. Work with people who love what they do.

Benefits of being a part of the Virginia International Tattoo:

Donor & Sponsorship: