Western Canada’s only military style Tattoo is all set to wow audiences with a production of 500 performers and volunteers this weekend.
The third annual Okanagan Military Tattoo gets underway at Kal Tire Place both Saturday, at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m.
The Tattoo goes international this year with the arrival of the 65 member Korean Military Traditional Band who are flying in from South Korea for their only scheduled Canadian performance.
“This year’s theme of ‘West meets East’ is highly appropriate as the Korean Military Traditional Band will interact with the Calgary Stampede Band of Outriders as well as massed Pipes & Drums, and Military Brass Bands, ethnic dancers and a contingent of cadets from the Vernon Cadet Camp,” said Derek Hall with the OMT.
The performances will also include a special Tribute to the Veterans, which will commemorate the centennial of the Battle of the Somme which took place 100 years ago this month during World War 1.
Canada suffered more than 25,000 casualties during the four month battle.
On the concourse level of Kal Tire Place, the Indus Media Foundation, a B.C.-based Punjabi heritage organization, will proudly present Leading the Charge.
The historic pictorial will display the spectacular cavalry charge at High Wood during the Battle of the Somme where a Punjabi cavalry regiment, led by a Sikh Squadron and supported by Canadian Forces took part in one of the few real cavalry charges in the whole of World War 1.
Special guest for the Saturday performance will be The Honourable Judith Guichon, OBC, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia.
Ticket holders are encouraged to arrive at least 45 minutes before show time to avoid traffic and parking delays.
Tickets to both indoor shows are still available through Ticket Seller in Vernon by calling 250-549-7469. All seating is reserved.
For more information, check out the Tattoo website at www.okanagantattoo.ca.