NORFOLK, VA. – Virginia Arts Festival has announced more details about the 2020 Virginia International Tattoo. The largest spectacle of music and might in the United States, the Virginia International Tattoo offers an astounding display of inspirational military music, majestic massed pipes and drums, show stopping drill team maneuvers, colorful and elegant dancers, and much more. Each year’s Tattoo is different, with new performers from across the globe, new themes of honor and patriotism, and new sights and sounds to amaze you. The 24th annual Tattoo, set for April 30-May 3, 2020, will feature over 1,000 performers from seven different countries--don’t blink or you might miss something!
“For the last 24 years, the Tattoo hasn’t just entertained people, it has inspired them; from the moment the audience’s hands touch their hearts during the Star Spangled Banner to when families jump to their feet when their veteran’s service song is sung,” says J. Scott Jackson, Producer/Director of the Virginia International Tattoo,“We are so honored that dozens of WWII veterans, often with the help and support of their families, have already made plans to join us. And of course we welcome all WWII veterans and their families from throughout the United States to join us at the 2020 Tattoo. Nothing could be more inspiring than to share the Tattoo with the Americans whose service and sacrifice forever defined them as the Greatest Generation.”
The 2020 Virginia International Tattoo promises to be one of the most moving ever, as we mark the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II and honor the courage and sacrifice of the Greatest Generation. With stirring music, historic photos and video, tributes from U.S. military bands, and special appearances by veterans, we will remember and celebrate the men and women who changed the course of history, not only for the United States but for the world.
Tickets are on sale now and available at www.vafest.org, by phone at 757-282-2822, or in person at the Virginia Arts Festival Box Office located at 440 Bank Street, Norfolk, VA 23510.
What is the Tattoo?
Presented annually as part of the Virginia Arts Festival, the term Tattoo evolved from a European tradition dating back to the 17th century when Low Country innkeepers would cry “Doe den tap toe!” – “Turn off the taps!” as the fifes and drums of the local regiment signaled a return to quarters.
The Tattoos seen across the world today refer to a ceremonial performance of military music by massed bands. Each Tattoo is influenced by the culture of the country they represent. Fans of these massed spectacles of music and might flock to the world’s great Tattoos: the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in Scotland, the Basel Tattoo in Switzerland, and the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo in Canada. But the greatest Tattoo in the United States, and rivaling the largest in the world, is the Virginia International Tattoo.
Attending the Virginia International Tattoo
When: Thursday, April 30, 7:30 pm
Friday, May 1, 7:30 pm
Saturday, May 2, 7:30 pm
Sunday, May 3, 2:30 pm
Where: Scope Arena, 201 E. Brambleton Avenue, Norfolk, Virginia
Tickets and Information: www.vafest.org, by phone at 757-282-2822, or in person at the Virginia Arts Festival Box Office located at 440 Bank Street, Norfolk, VA 23510.
Stay up to date: Follow the Virginia International Tattoo on social media platforms @VaTatt and subscribe to our Virginia International Tattoo YouTube page.
Virginia International Tattoo 2020 Participating Nations:
Australia
Canada
Latvia
Republic of Korea
Switzerland
United Kingdom
United States of America
And many more. *The cast is subject to changes and additions