The tarmac is turning tartan is what some are saying as more than 800 performers from 13 countries start flying into Brisbane for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
Along with 33 tonnes of instruments and equipment, performers are coming in from the UK, Norway, United States, Canada, Switzerland, Tonga, Japan, Sweden, Hong Kong and New Zealand.
Brisbane Airport CEO Gert-Jan de Graaff says they are playing their part in enabling the Tattoo to go ahead.
“It’s fair to say we’ve never seen this much tartan on our tarmac,” he says.
“With Brisbane named after Scotsman Sir Thomas Brisbane, welcoming this iconic celebration of Scottish culture to our city feels especially fitting.
“Performances like the Tattoo don’t just happen … it’s our role to ensure everything runs smoothly during their arrival and departure.”
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Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner says they are “thrilled” to host the Tattoo for the first time.
“This spectacular event will … shine a global spotlight on Brisbane as Australia’s lifestyle capital,” he says.
TARMAC INFLUX
Airport Head of Terminal Operations Stacey Pollard says an extra 38,000 passengers are expected to fly in for the Tattoo which will be held in Brisbane from February 12-16.
The show is expected to inject $39 million into the local economy, organisers say.
Four Boeing 737 flights will then depart the tarmac afterwards to carry the Tattoo to Auckland for their NZ show.
“Operation Tartan Tarmac officially begins tomorrow, as Brisbane Airport gears up for one of the most unique arrivals we’ve ever hosted,” Pollard says.
“It’s not just the performers coming; they’ll be bringing bagpipes, drums, uniforms and kilts from all over the world.
“We’re expecting busy flights from regional Queensland and right across Australia.”
Tattoo creative director Alan Lane says excitement levels are building with a week to go.
“Each day sees the arrival of more of the creative team and cast from around the world,” he says.
“Transforming over 1000 cast members into one seamless production in just a few days is the challenge of the Tattoo.
“Performing four consecutive nights at Suncorp Stadium is something no artist has done before.”
More than 30 bands and cultural groups will perform including military, royal and police bands from the UK, Australia, Norway, Japan, Tonga, United States and Auckland.
Tickets for the Tattoo’s 75th anniversary show are available via Ticketek. The show will be held at Suncorp Stadium.
The Tattoo has been held in Australia before: in Sydney (2005, 2010, 2019) and Melbourne (2016).
EARLIER TATTOO NEWS: Extra shows added to Brisbane event
