International Tattoo

2008 Saskatchewan International Tattoo

Thrill to the pomp and circumstance of the 2008 International Tattoo and Festival. Regina’s Brandt Centre will be filled with the sounds of regimental music and marching bands, military and police demonstrations, competitions and ceremonies, powerful choral presentations, and heartfelt musical tributes by talented soloists and dance groups in a celebration of our heritage and culture.

The Tattoo goes Friday May 30 and Saturday May 31, 2008 with three shows: Friday at 7:00pm, Saturday at 1:00pm and 7:00pm.

What is a Tattoo?

A Tattoo is a spectacular production of entertainment, highlighted by ceremonial performances of military music, massed bands, competitions and displays by military, police and civilian performers.

Tattoos have evolved from the 17th century practice by the British Military in Holland of summonsing soldiers back to quarters with the beat of a drum. The practice evolved into larger and more colourful groups of musicians and marchers that attracted a crowd. The word "tattoo" came from the Dutch phrase "doe den tap toe", a signal to innkeepers to "turn off the taps". Over the years the phrase was shortened to "tap toe" and finally the word we use today, "Tattoo".

Today there are eight major Tattoos in the world, plus many smaller Tattoos and festivals each with its own unique flavor. A Mounted Police Tattoo was held in Regina in 1998 to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the RCMP. There were originally three performances planned for that event but the demand was so great that the dress rehearsal was changed into a full performance!

The first annual Tattoo was held May 24 - 26, 2007 in the Brandt Centre at Ipsco Place, with three evening performances and one Saturday Matinee. The 2007 tattoo was a military pageant on a grand scale with a cast exceeding 500 performers and 50 horses.

For more information visit the 2008 International Tattoo website.

Photo: Michael Lasko