The United States Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps bring USA history to this year’s 75th Anniversary Tattoo
Against the iconic backdrop of the Ross Fountain and Edinburgh Castle, The United States Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps enjoy a tour of Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens ahead of their next performance at The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
Making their Tattoo debut, and wearing uniforms dating back to 1784, the United States Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps bring a wealth of history to help celebrate the 75th Anniversary Show this year.
As the US Army’s oldest active infantry regiment, their performance pays a special tribute to the US Army’s 250 years of service, proudly honouring the traditions that accompanied the birth of the United States of America.
The United States Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps will perform on the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade each night throughout this year’s 75th Anniversary Show, which runs until 23 August 2025.
A tribute to heroism, culture, history and the people who have helped shape the Tattoo over the last 75 years
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is back for its landmark 75th edition, honouring the heroes who have shaped its remarkable legacy. This year’s Show, The Heroes Who Made Us, blends military precision, cultural heritage, and artistic brilliance to celebrate the selflessness and dedication of those who have contributed to the Tattoo over the past seven decades.
Ahead of opening night on 1 August, the Cast performed their final dress rehearsal on the iconic Edinburgh Castle Esplanade in front of an eager preview audience. This special anniversary performance pays tribute to the Tattoo’s rich history while embracing its thrilling future.
The British Army takes the Lead Service role this year, joined by a diverse international cast and anchored by the world-class Tattoo performers. With over 900 performers from across the globe, audiences will be treated to an extraordinary journey through time and tradition, featuring talent from the Poland, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Ukraine, and the United States of America.
Blending pageantry with theatrical flair, the 2025 Tattoo reaffirms its position as a unique highlight of the world-renowned Edinburgh festivals. Celebrating values of connection, community, and shared heritage, this year’s performance reflects the enduring spirit that has defined the Tattoo for 75 years – while looking forward to its exciting future.
First across the drawbridge, as is tradition every year, The Massed Pipes and Drums once again fill the hallowed stage of the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade. Comprised of military and civilian pipe bands from across the globe, they set the tone for a performance unlike any other in the world.
In a year dedicated to honouring heroes, The Orchestra of Naval Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, have travelled to Edinburgh, leaving Ukraine for the first time since 2018, due to the challenges of Covid and war to perform an unforgettable set for Tattoo audiences.
Making their Tattoo debut, the United States Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps will bring a slice of American history to Edinburgh with their iconic uniforms and stirring music. Also from America, the United States Air Force Honor Guard returns to showcase their unmatched precision and dedication. Adding further international flair, the Representative Band of the Polish Border Guard will grace the Esplanade for the first time in 15 years.
With a 270 strong choir due to take the stage every night, Erskine Stewart’s Melville Schools (ESMS) Choir, Sing in the City and Ukrainian Community Choirs will join forces to uplift spirits with their powerful harmonies.
A perennial fan favourite, Switzerland’s renowned Top Secret Drum Corps, will once again captivate audiences with their dazzling fusion of Basel drumming and visual spectacle.
Adding something extra special this year, narration returns in the form of evocative storytelling performed by actor Terence Rae. Audiences will be taken on a journey through the rich history of this iconic event, tracing its roots all the way back to its beginnings in 1950.
This 75th Tattoo celebrates cherished traditions while embracing modern elements of light and showmanship, promising an unforgettable experience that will leave audiences in awe.
Alan Lane, Creative Director at The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said:“We don’t talk about heroes enough in this country. Whether this is military service or volunteers within our society, it is these people that help make life tick along that little bit more smoothly and that deserves to be honoured and celebrated.
“We are in such a unique position that we get to do performances as grand as the Tattoo and that’s why this year, we’re embracing our position at the top of the Castle (quite literally) during the Edinburgh festivals. The Heroes Who Made Us, is a testimony to the artistic nature of the Tattoo and will come with all the bells and whistles that people know us for.
“We cannot wait to welcome back audiences to witness a Show that really lives up to the momentous occasion.”
Jason Barrett, Chief Executive of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo added:“When Alan and I began to conceptualise the theme for 2025 we quickly arrived to something around salute to service and a tribute to our history.
“From that, ‘The Heroes Who Made Us’ was formed. We wanted to honour the heroes who made the Tattoo what it is today, those who serve this wonderful country and those who serve their communities.
“As we do every year, the Show features inspiring acts from around the world. This year we are especially privileged to welcome The Naval Orchestra of Ukraine, the first time they will have left their country since 2018.
“We couldn’t be more excited to celebrate our 75th, honouring our past while imagining our future. Early in 2026 we take the Show to Brisbane and Auckland – Tattoo 75 on tour bringing The Heroes Who Made Us halfway around the world.”
The full line up for 2025 includes: The Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland, British Army Band Catterick, British Army Band Tidworth, British Army Band Colchester, The Band of the Prince of Wales, Countess of Wessex Strings, Pipes and Drums of 1st Battalion Scots Guards, 2nd Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland, 3rd Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland, 4th Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland, The Pipes And Drums Of The Royal Corps Of Signals, Combined Universities Officer Training Corps Pipes and Drums, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Pipes and Drums, Crossed Swords Pipes & Drums, Paris Port Dover Pipes & Drums, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Dancers, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Fiddlers, Erskine Stewart’s Melville Schools Choir, Ukrainian Children’s Choir, Sing in the City Choir , Top Secret Drum Corps, US Old Guard Fifes and Drum Corps, United States Air Force Honor Guard Drill Team, Ukraine Naval Forces Orchestra and The Representative Band of The Polish Border Guard.
Tickets for The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo’s 75th anniversary Show are now on sale and can be purchased at edintattoo.co.uk/tickets or on the phone, 0131 225 1188. The Show will run from 1-23 August 2025.
Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal, attended The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo rehearsal at Redford Barracks yesterday.
During her visit, HRH The Princess Royal, who was appointed as Patron of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in 2006, was seen meeting with performers from across the globe – including Poland, Switzerland, the USA and Ukraine.
The 75th anniversary Show of the Tattoo kicks tomorrow – Friday 1 August.
The Massed Military Bands of the British Army will present a pop medley of Scottish pop classics on the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade
Crowds at The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are set to enjoy a medley of Scottish pop classics this summer performed by the Massed Military Bands of the British Army.
As part of the brand’s 75th anniversary celebrations, this year’s Show The Heroes Who Made Us will feature fan favourites such as “Yes Sir! I Can Boogie” and “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)”.
And with just 50 days to go before the Tattoo’s opening weekend, fans can get their hands on exclusive tickets to this year’s performance at its final dress rehearsal on Thursday 31 July 2025 with prices reduced by 50%.
Tickets go on sale at 10am on Thursday 12 June 2025 and are available online at edintattoo.co.uk or over the phone by calling 0131 225 1188.
As Lead Service, the British Army will be part of an awe-inspiring showcase of music, dance, and precision performance that encapsulates 75 years of the Tattoo story.
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Creative Director, Alan Lane, said: “Scottish culture has led the way for centuries. From Adam Smith’s Wealth of Nations to the work of Ian Rankin and everything in between Scottish cultural thought sets the standard. Nowhere is that more true than the world of pop music.
“So for our 75th anniversary show it’s exciting to include some of the best of Scottish pop music.
“Huge songs from The Fratellis through Simple Minds to Lewis Capaldi, all played by the best of Army musicians. This is one of the many moments in the Show where we combine our proud history with contemporary culture to create something fresh for our audience. I’d urge everyone to take advantage of these half-price tickets and make sure they’re there in person to see the Show.”
The full list of Scottish pop classics to ring out around the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade this year is:
Chelsea Dagger – The Fratellis
Don’t You Forget About – Simple Minds
For The Love Of A Princess – Braveheart
I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) – Proclaimers
Someone You Loved – Lewis Capaldi
Sweet Dreams – Eurythmics
Thorn In My Side – Eurythmics
Why Does it Always Rain on Me – Travis
Yes Sir! I Can Boogie – Baccara
Over 800 international performers will take the stage, representing the heroism and cultural richness of their countries through song and dance.
Music will play a central role in the performance, featuring the famous songs of Scottish national treasures like Skipinnish, whose track “Eagle’s Wing”, performed by The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo cast, will close the Show.
Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to witness The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo at a discounted rate.
Tickets for the Preview Night will be available from Thursday 12 June at 10am BST at edintattoo.co.uk/tickets or via phone at 0131 225 1188.
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo has announced they will be touring the Show The Heroes Who Made Us in Australia and New Zealand in 2026.
The dazzling spectacle, a key part of the Scottish events calendar, will be performed in Brisbane and Auckland in February next year, and will include performances by national military forces from Australia and New Zealand as well as from the UK.
2025 marks the 75th Anniversary of the organisation and these events further extend the international reach of the Tattoo that traditionally takes place on the stunning Edinburgh Castle Esplanade every August with a global cast.
The Shows will take place 12 and 14 February at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium and in Auckland’s Eden Park, home of the All Blacks national rugby team, on 19 and 21 February. The Australian Defence Force will play a key role at the Brisbane Show, and the New Zealand Defence Force will do the same in Auckland.
The Shows will incorporate elements of this year’s Tattoo theme, The Heroes Who Made Us, spotlighting the individuals who have shaped and supported the iconic performances over the past 75 years. Top Secret Drum Corps will join the line-up, alongside other performer groups from New Zealand, Australia, the UK and from throughout the globe.
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo has previously travelled down under to delight audiences with performances in Wellington, Syndey and Melbourne in 2000, 2005, 2010, 2016 and most recently in 2019 at the ANZ Stadium in Syndey. This tour will be the first time the spectacular event has been performed to Brisbane and Auckland audiences.
While The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Show has been screened at more than 150 cinemas across Australia and New Zealand in recent years, in 2026 people across the countries have the opportunity to once again truly experience the iconic spectacle in person.
If down under is too far to travel, tickets for The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo 2025 75th Anniversary Show at Edinburgh Castle Esplanade are available at edintattoo.co.uk/tickets or by calling 0131 225 1188. For the Australia and New Zealand 2026 Show, tickets can be purchased tickets can be purchased from 21 May 2025 from Ticketek.
Jason Barrett, Chief Executive of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said: “We are thrilled to be bringing The Royal Edinburgh Military to Australia and New Zealand once again in 2026.
“Throughout the 75-year history, the Tattoo has proudly crossed oceans, continually reaching new audiences and connecting Tattoo fans in the unique Tattoo spirit. This upcoming tour will blend our Scottish traditions with the distinctive military heritage of Australia and New Zealand all set against the backdrop of two spectacular venues.
“We eagerly anticipate hosting new audiences and welcoming back Tattoo fans to witness a truly remarkable spectacle.”
Full line up and Show creative unveiled for The Heroes Who Made Us
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo gives audiences an exclusive look behind the drawbridge of its landmark 75th Anniversary Show, The Heroes Who Made Us, set to take place at the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade in August 2025.
This year’s milestone event promises to celebrate the past, while imagining the future of the Tattoo. Taking audiences back to where it all began in 1950, with the British Army taking on the prestigious role of the Lead Service, the Show will present music, dance and precision performance that make up the last 75 years of the Tattoo story and beyond.
Over 800 performers, from around the globe, will take to the world-famous Edinburgh Castle Esplanade for the 75th year – including some fan favourites. Joining the iconic Massed Pipes and Drums, Military Musicians and Tattoo Dancers will be Band of the Polish Border Guard, Top Secret Drum Corps, United States Honour Guard Drill Team, Ukraine Naval Forces Orchestra, and United States Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps.
Music is a key part of the Tattoo story, and this August, the Show will recognise the music that has shaped the Tattoo, and the wider world, over the years.
The Show will include poignant songs such as the “74th Slow March” played in honour of the brave souls of the 74th (Highland) Regiment who were steadfast during the sinking of the ‘Birkenhead’ in 1852.
In celebration of 75 years of the Tattoo, the Tattoo Performers will collaborate on a special performance Now That’s What I CallTattoo 75, a section of the Show where audiences will be hard fought to keep their feet still as the performers take on a series of favourite hits from the last seven decades.
Each act is set to bring a flavour of the heroism from their country, regiment or tradition, celebrating those who have contributed to their stories. For Creative Director Alan Lane The Heroes Who Made Us marks his first Show in the new role.
Alan Lane, Creative Director of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said: “I am deeply honoured to direct my first Tattoo, especially as we approach such a monumental milestone.
“It’s a show I’ve admired as a fan for decades and the team and I have been working on this anniversary year show for over a year now. I cannot wait to unveil it to the audience and start to tell it stories.
“’The Heroes Who Made Us,’ honours both the Tattoo’s history and the everyday heroes who knit out society together with their volunteering, their courage or the inspiration their lives lived provide to the rest of us.
“We’re introducing a storyteller to this year’s show. Terence Rae is a brilliant actor and placing him at the heart of this year’s show will add a layer of theatricality that I am excited for our audience to experience. Terence is a long-time collaborator of mine and I jump at any chance to work with him.
“The creative and production team here is second to none and our constant aim is to blend tradition with innovation, creating a show that respects our legacy while offering fresh and exciting performances. Aways aware of our heritage but driving forward to the future, that’s the aiming mark.”
Alongside the incredible musical performances, audiences can expect a new role within the Show as a Storyteller will take to the Esplanade.
The role, taken on by Scottish actor Terence Rae, will support the storytelling and truly be immersed in the Show. Terence will also spotlight the local heroes who are working to make a difference to the community they serve, a special nod to the charitable ethos of the Tattoo that it has held since 1950.
Terence Rae said:“It is an immense honour to be the Storyteller for the 75th Anniversary Show of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo – The Heroes Who Made Us. I’m excited to play my part in a show which celebrates all those who have shaped the Tattoo’s history over the past 75 years.
“I am deeply grateful to be part of this iconic spectacle, and to work with the outstanding creative and production teams that are here. Preparations have begun, and the excitement for the August Show is building every day. It will be a privilege to step onto the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade with my fellow castmates and play our small part in the mighty Edinburgh Tattoo.”
Jason Barrett, Chief Executive Officer at The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said: “As we prepare to celebrate our 75th Anniversary Show, it is with great pride and excitement that we unveil ‘The Heroes Who Made Us.‘
“This milestone event is a testament to the enduring legacy and global significance of the Tattoo, and it is a privilege to honour the heroes who have played a pivotal role in shaping our history and communities.
“Under the visionary leadership of our newly appointed Creative Director Alan, we are committed to delivering a show that marries tradition with innovation, creating an unforgettable experience for our audiences. We look forward to sharing this special celebration with the world and continuing to inspire and connect people through the power of performance and storytelling.”
Tickets for The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo’s 75th anniversary Show are now on sale and can be purchased at edintattoo.co.uk/tickets or on the phone, 0131 225 1188. The Show will run from 1-23 August 2025.
The full list confirmed acts is: The Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland, British Army Band Catterick, British Army Band Tidworth, British Army Band Colchester, The Band of the Prince of Wales, Countess of Wessex Strings, Pipes and Drums of 1st Battalion Scots Guards, 2nd Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland, 3rd Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland, 4th Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland, The Pipes And Drums Of The Royal Corps Of Signals, Combined Universities Officer Training Corps Pipes and Drums, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Pipes and Drums, Crossed Swords Pipes & Drums, Paris Port Dover Pipes & Drums, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Dancers, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Fiddlers, Erskine Stewart’s Melville Schools Choir, Ukrainian Children’s Choir, Sing in the City Choir , Top Secret Drum Corps, US Old Guard Fifes and Drum Corps, United States Air Force Honor Guard Drill Team, Ukraine Naval Forces Orchestra and The Representative Band of The Polish Border Guard.
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo visited New York City and Washington DC to celebrate Scottish heritage during Tartan Week and performed for the first time at the Washington Tattoo.
Thirty performers from The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo including Pipers, Drummers, Fiddle players and Highland Dancers have accompanied the Secretary of State for Scotland, Ian Murray, on his visit to the United States.
They kicked off with a performance at Washington’s iconic Capitol building to mark the beginning of Tartan Week.
In the 75th Anniversary year, the Tattoo is playing a key role in promoting the rich culture of Scotland in America and on an international stage.
Jason Barrett, Chief Executive of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said:“In our 75th year, we are absolutely thrilled to be taking the Tattoo state side for some small-scale performances and strengthen partnerships with key stakeholders within the US.
“Working with The Washington Tattoo and organisers of New York Tartan Week, our performers are excited to perform alongside some of those US performers we’ve welcomed to Edinburgh over the years.
“In partnership with VisitScotland and Brand Scotland, we’re honoured to be able to represent Scotland. It’s so important for us to highlight Scottish and military tradition around the globe and encourage those across the pond to come and see the Tattoo in Edinburgh for themselves.”
Alan Lane, Creative Director of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said:“We’ve travelled with thirty of our Tattoo Performers to take their talent on tour to Washington and New York.
“The opportunity for our performers to collaborate with such a variety of musicians in America, whilst showcasing the rich Scottish heritage, is one we’re all really excited about.
“It’s great to spread the word of the Tattoo across the globe in our 75th year, and the brilliant performance company on this trip is but a fraction of the power of the full-scale Tattoo production people can see this August on the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade.”
US investors invited to Edinburgh for a Global Investment Summit to help boost jobs and investment
Jobs and investment in Scotland will be top of the agenda today [Thursday 3 April] when Scottish Secretary Ian Murray, Lord Mayor of London Alastair King and Scottish Financial Enterprise Chief Executive Sandy Begbie meet key sectors in a series of meetings in New York during Tartan Week.
In a co-ordinated effort aimed at boosting growth in Scotland they will invite companies to attend the Scottish Investor Summit – organised by Scottish Financial Enterprise and The City of London Corporation – to be held in Edinburgh in October this year.
The event will be key to encouraging inward investment in Scotland – investment which can boost Scotland’s economy, create well paid jobs and boost living standards, putting more money back in people’s pockets.
The New York meetings will showcase Scotland’s key strengths in financial services, clean energy and life sciences to international investors. This will be held at the UK Consul General’s residence in New York and at the offices of BlackRock, a global investment management corporation with a significant presence in Scotland.
Secretary of State for Scotland Ian Murray said: “At a time when we are celebrating Scotland on the international stage, we want to highlight the exceptional investment opportunities in innovative industries.
“These meetings and roundtables are at the heart of Brand Scotland, selling the nation on the global stage. By strengthening these international partnerships through our Plan for Change, we’re laying the groundwork for the Edinburgh Global Investment Summit.”
Lord Mayor of London Alastair King said: “Tartan week is not just an opportunity to celebrate the strong cultural and economic links between Scotland and the US, it is also a chance to deepen them further especially in financial services.
“That is why I am in New York speaking to major US businesses and investors and promoting the forthcoming Scottish Investment Summit in Edinburgh in October
“The theme of my mayoralty is ‘growth unleashed’, aiming to reignite the City’s appetite for positive risk and fully leverage the white heat of new technology to fuel economic growth across the United Kingdom. One of the best ways to do that is through greater cooperation with the US in financial services – which is a major part of both the Scottish and wider UK economy.”
Chief Executive of Scottish Financial Enterprise Sandy Begbie CBE said: “Tartan week is an excellent example of the soft power which Scotland commands across the globe, but especially in the US. These roundtables provide just a small taste of the investment opportunity in Scotland.
“The Scottish investment summit later this year will showcase in detail the very best of Scotland’s financial services, renewables and life science to global investors. This coupled with opportunities to engage with government stakeholders and investment prospects highlight the unique opportunity the summit will bring.”
The Scottish investment summit, to be held in Edinburgh in October, will bring together major global investors, UK industry leaders, higher education institutions, and government representatives. Around 150 senior-level attendees are expected at the summit, with at least half representing significant global investors.
The summit will showcase the investments that have already been made, as well as the rationale behind why firms made the decision to invest in Scotland and what have been the returns and benefits to them as a result. It will also provide opportunities for investors to engage with investment prospects that currently exist in our investment pipeline, as well as government and regulatory stakeholders.
The Secretary of State for Scotland @ianmurraymp will sign a historic agreement with @EdinburghTattoo in Washington DC on 1 April. It will see one of Scotland's most iconic cultural institutions support Brand Scotland in the US and around the world. pic.twitter.com/8gjfzu1NXG
— UK Government Scotland (@UKGovScotland) March 31, 2025
Scottish Secretary Ian Murray is ‘further strengthening diplomatic, cultural and business ties with the United States’ during a five-day visit this week to Washington DC and New York.
As part of the UK Government’s Plan for Change, Brand Scotland is boosting economic growth by promoting Scottish products and services and while attracting international inward investment.
While in Washington, Secretary of State for Scotland Ian Murray signed a strategic partnership agreement with The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo to promote Scotland worldwide.
As part of the Government’s Plan for Change, Brand Scotland supports delivering security and renewal by kick-starting economic growth. This new partnership aims to support Scottish businesses in trading internationally, encouraging foreign direct investment, and promoting Scottish culture globally.
Thirty performers from The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo including pipers, drummers, fiddle players and dancers have accompanied the Secretary of State on his visit to the United States. They kicked off with a performance at Washington’s iconic Capitol building to mark the beginning of Tartan Week.
After an amazing show in Glasgow, we’re thrilled to reunite with our Hoolie friends—this time in New York!
Join us this Saturday at @carnegiehall for Scotland’s Hoolie in New York!
Secretary of State for Scotland Ian Murray said: “Scotland has an enviable international reputation, with our culture, products and services renowned worldwide.This partnership with The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo – one of Scotland’s most iconic cultural institutions – will help us champion Brand Scotland across the world.
“Kickstarting growth is the key to delivering the government’s Plan For Change, and selling Scotland to the world will deliver that. This Tartan Week we will be celebrating Scottish culture and seeking new opportunities for growth. I can think of no better way to start than with a performance by the Tattoo in front of an iconic building.”
Jason Barrett, Chief Executive of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said: “As we celebrate our 75th anniversary, we are delighted to partner with Brand Scotland to bring the very best of Scotland to the USA for Tartan Week.
“Showcasing Scottish heritage on the global stage is at the heart of the Tattoo, and we are thrilled to inspire audiences while promoting Scotland not just in the USA, but around the world.”
The Tattoo has long been a cultural ambassador for Scotland, and their presence in the US and on future trade missions will encourage investment and promote Scottish business through performances and profile. The Tattoo Performers will also march with the Secretary of State down 6th Avenue in New York as part of the annual Tartan Day parade on Saturday 5 April.
The Tattoo will go on to support Brand Scotland trade missions in Japan and Australia later in the year.
In celebration of its 75th anniversary this year, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo will include a Storyteller in the Show, The Heroes Who Made Us, to take audiences on a journey through the Tattoo’s history.
The Tattoo’s newly appointed Creative Director Alan Lane has invited Terence Rae to perform the role for the 2025 Show. Alan hopes that the character will guide audiences through the Show, providing a cohesive narrative thread, and create a deeper emotional spectator experience.
After training at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, Terence has showcased his talents across a diverse array of mediums, performing on television and film, and taking on lead roles in theatre productions.
His extensive experience of large-scale storytelling, and love of traditional Scottish music, along with a keen musical ear, equip him with the essential tools to take his place at the centre of this year’s Tattoo.
Taking to the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade itself, Terence will lead the audience through the Show with tales of heroism, heritage and history.
This year’s Show, The Heroes Who Made Us, will celebrate the individuals who have shaped and supported the iconic performances over the past 75 years, as well as spotlighting the local heroes that are working to make a difference to the community they serve. The military is at the heart of the showcase, with the British Army confirmed as the Lead Service.
The Esplanade will be filled with over 800 cast members, including the Massed Pipes and Drums, Tattoo Dancers and various international acts. The 2025 Show promises to be a breathtaking spectacle, featuring a dazzling array of military bands, cultural performers, and intricate choreography set against the stunning backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.
With the introduction of the Storyteller, audiences can expect a seamless blend of tradition and innovation, capturing the essence of the Tattoo’s spirit and its commitment to excellence.
Terence Rae said: “It is an immense honour to be the Storyteller for the 75th Anniversary Show of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo – The Heroes Who Made Us. I’m excited to play my part in a show which celebrates all those who have shaped the Tattoo’s history over the past 75 years.
“I am deeply grateful to be part of this iconic spectacle, and to work with the outstanding creative and production teams that are here. Preparations have begun, and the excitement for the August Show is building every day.
“It will be a privilege to step onto the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade with my fellow castmates and play our small part in the mighty Edinburgh Tattoo.”
Alan Lane, Creative Director of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said:“We are delighted that Terence will join this year’s Show as the Storyteller.The role is an exciting way for us to weave together the history of the last 75 years of the Tattoo, celebrating the past and looking to the future.
“It marks the start of a new storytelling chapter that I am hoping will deepen the audience’s enjoyment of the Tattoo.
“Having worked with Terence on many other productions across the years, I know the power and presence he will bring to the role. The audiences are in for such a treat, I am sure they will be moved and delighted by Terence.”
Tickets for The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo’s 75th anniversary Show are now on sale and can be purchased at edintattoo.co.uk/tickets or on the phone, 0131 225 1188. The Show will run from 1-23 August 2025.
The arts spectacular is calling on fans to choose a charity to receive a special 75p donation from every ticket sold for the 2025 performance
In celebration of the upcoming 75th anniversary, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo launches its new initiative to donate 75p of every 2025 Show ticket sold to a new charity.
Tattoo fans are being asked to vote from selected charities to receive this one-off donation which could equate to £162,000 in line with expected ticket sales.
The theme for next year’s Tattoo, The Heroes Who Made Us, will spotlight the individuals who have shaped and supported the iconic performances over the past 75 years. This theme aligns with the Tattoo’s ethos of ‘Performance with a Purpose’ and its commitment to honour people across the country and support the heroes who are making a difference in their communities.
In line with this ethos and in addition to the brand’s annual charitable donations, five charities have been shortlisted to win the share of the 75p per ticket charity donation for one year only.
The shortlisted five charities have been nominated by Tattoo staff who put a case forward for them to be on the list, these are all non-military charities that are close to the hearts of those who put on the iconic spectacle.
They are: the British Heart Foundation, Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity, Parkinsons UK, Rock Trust and St Columba’s Hospice Care.
The Tattoo’s annual charitable giving continues alongside this new initiative, as it aims to build up to pre-Covid donations of £1M a year which is thanks to those who attend the Show each year. Charities that are continuing to benefit include The Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity, the Army Benevolent Fund, the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund, and the Scottish Schools Pipe and Drums Trust.
Fans of the Tattoo across the UK are invited to cast their vote to determine which charity will receive the 75th anniversary donation.
Voting closes at midnight on Sunday 5 January 2025. Stay updated by following Tattoo social media channels, where the winning charity will be announced in January 2025.
Jason Barrett, Chief Executive Officer at The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said: “In celebrating 75 years of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, we honour the heroes who have made the Tattoo so great throughout the years. Additionally, we honour the local heroes within our communities in Edinburgh, throughout Scotland, and around the world.
“Charitable giving is at the heart of everything the Tattoo does. Being able to contribute to our longstanding charitable partners as well as selecting a specific charity chosen by the Tattoo fans is a special benefit this year.
“We are committed to continuing our legacy of making a meaningful impact to those who continue to make a difference in our communities every day.
“I encourage everyone to join us in this celebration by casting their vote to support a worthy cause.”
Tickets for The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo’s 75th anniversary Show are now on sale and can be purchased at edintattoo.co.uk/tickets or on the phone, 0131 225 1188. The Show will run from 1-23 August 2025.
