Top Secret and Burns tribute set to drum up special Tattoo

IT'S an iconic event that has entertained millions of people worldwide over the last six decades.

But next year's 60th Edinburgh Military Tattoo looks set to be one of the most special yet.

That is because the show-stopper is not only part of Scotland's first ever "homecoming year", but it will also pay tribute to the 250th anniversary of the birth of the country's national bard, Robert Burns.

And there's even a dash of south-east Asia thrown in there too – just for extra measure.

The first names for the 2009 event have finally been revealed, with audience favourites the 30-strong Top Secret Drum Corps from the Swiss city of Basel making a return to the Capital.

"I think there's no question that Top Secret will be one of the audience favourites next year," said Alan Smith, marketing manager for the Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

"They fuse furiously fast with exceptionally precise percussion and clockwork-precision visual effects."

Next year's Tattoo, which is expected to entertain 217,000 spectators throughout its run, takes place from August 7 to 29 on Edinburgh Castle Esplanade.

Mr Smith added: "The Homecoming clearly makes it extra special and adds a new dimension to procedures, particularly as we are working very hard at celebrating Scottish culture and heritage, and particularly as 2009 is also the 250th anniversary of Robert Burns."

An extract of Burns' Tam O'Shanter will be portrayed both in dance, by the Tattoo's own Highland Spring Dancers accompanied by a 50-strong Australian Highland Dance troupe, and in terms of verse.

The Tattoo will feature 25 performances in addition to four exclusive extra performances outside Edinburgh to mark the 2009 Homecoming. The details, including venues, for the extra performances have not yet been revealed.

With more than 1000 performers, including Tongan musicians, an all-male Canadian choir and the Indian Navy, as well as entertainers from the Royal Scottish Academy of Music & Drama, the Tattoo looks set to present a compelling mix of music, ceremony, and theatre, while continuing to showcase the cream of Scottish culture.

Next summer's colourful production will also include contributions from Switzerland's premier military band, the Central Band of the Swiss Army, who will make their first appearance at the Edinburgh Tattoo.

The Massed Bands of the Royal Air Force, who previously performed at the 2004 Tattoo, will also entertain next year's crowds.

Tattoo chief executive and producer, Major General Euan Loudon, commented: "We are delighted to be part of next year's important celebration of Scotland's culture and heritage."

Booking for the 2009 event opens on Monday, December 1.