Taste of the Tattoo

A week ago today (yes, I've been shirking my blogging duties -- what else is new?) the Edinburgh Tattoo brought a sample of their performance to Glasgow. They do this on a yearly basis under the title of "The Taste of the Tattoo", and it's an excellent opportunity to see some great performances without forking over a single pound.

Kristie and I headed to George Square at lunch time to grab our seats. Upon first glance, the entire set of stands was packed with spectators half an hour before anything started. Fortunately for us, they opened the gates to the premium seating (right behind the guest of honour) just as we got there. We ended up being wedged in between two cheery old Scottish ladies (one eating haggis, tatties, and neeps) that commentated the entire show. The show ended with Auld Lang Syne being sung by everyone (us included) with hands held. We had little clue as to what the protocol was, but there always seems to be a nice old Scottish lady around to explain things ;). Lots more photos here.

 Band major leading in a traditional Scottish Pipe Band.

 

 Cuban dancers and marching band (it was raining bad at this point).

Austrian (I think?) marching band. They were a little more worried about getting wet.

Calgary (yes, Calgary Canada) Men's Club. They had a great tune about haggis & whisky.

 

Great traditional Chinese group.

  

Group of highland dancers from Australia.

By far, the most impressive group was the Swiss, Top Secret Drum Corps. They were very impressive, but unfortunately our camera was out of space for video at this point.