THE Military Tattoo is celebrating its third consecutive year at the Manchester Arena with a fresh show.
This year the event is dedicated to all those who have served (or who still serve) in the most dangerous of environments - behind the lines, highlighting the heroic actions of those in SOE (Special Operations Executive), while celebrating the 60th anniversary of Arnhem and the DDay Landings.
Without the dedication and bravery of these special agents and airborne forces, the outcome of the Second World War might have been very different.
There are action displays from 12 Company 4 Parachute Regiment (TA) and the Allied Special Forces Action Teams (ex-special forces including SAS) who will recreate a hostage situation.
The theme continues with music from the renowned Band of the Parachute Regiment and The Band of the Light Division. WARS (WW2 Axis Reenactment Society) help to depict the capture of SOE agents, including Violette Szabo, in 1944.
To complete this moving portrayal there will be a guest appearance by Virginia McKenna, who played Violette in the film Carve Her Name With Pride.
Music is provided by the familiar sounds of the Pipes & Drums of the Scots Guards' Association (Manchester) and the GMP Band, which will undoubtedly entertain the crowds, while the Irish Guards Singers also return.
Every year the Military Tattoo has increased in popularity. The high standard of the displays and musicians has encouraged celebrities such as Virginia McKenna to offer their support to such a fitting tribute to all service men and women. Tickets for the Tattoo, tomorrow at 2pm and 7.30pm, are priced £12.50 (concessions £10), available from the box office on 0870 190 8000.
