RAF in Concert tour marks 75th anniversary of Battle of Britain
Whether combatting the Luftwaffe during the Battle of Britain or scrambling Typhoons to escort Russian Bears off the Cornish coast in 2015, the crucial role of the Royal Air Force in securing our skies remains as important today as it was 75 years ago.
The concerts will turn the spotlight not only on the celebrated ‘Few’ but also on the many unsung heroes who contributed to Britain’s ‘Finest Hour’.
Featuring the Bands of the RAF, the shows will include rousing military marches, popular songs from the era, plus big band numbers and classical pieces that showcase the virtuosity of the musicians.
From Bernstein’s Mambo to Holst’s Mars, the concerts will serve as a musical tribute to all those who participated in the Battle of Britain and to those who have inherited their legacy.
The prestigious 15-venue tour, which is staged in support of the RAF Charitable Trust, begins at the Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury on October 17. Compering duties will be shared once again by BBC Radio Two stalwarts Alan Dedicoat, Ken Bruce and Lynn Bowles. Tour soloists will include Flt Lt Matt Little and Cpl Matt Walker (see specific venues for details).
Tour organiser Tina Outlaw said: “We’re looking forward to building on the success of last year’s tour which took the audience on an entertaining musical journey that charted the 50 years since the Red Arrows’ first display season.
“This year’s anniversary not only gives us the opportunity to look back to the events of 1940 but also to recognise those men and women of today who protect UK airspace 24/7.”
Sponsored by BAE Systems and Lockheed Martin, the concert tour will visit: October 17: Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury; Oct 21: The Anvil Basingstoke; Oct 23: Royal Hall, Harrogate; Oct 25: The Sage, Gateshead; Oct 29, Bridgewater Hall, Manchester; Nov 1: Wycombe Swan, High Wycombe; Nov 12: Cadogan Hall, London; Nov 14: Royal Centre, Nottingham; Nov 15: Symphony Hall, Birmingham; Nov 17: Colston Hall, Bristol; Nov 25: Cliffs Pavilion, Southend; Dec 4: Ipswich Regent; Dec 6: Theatre Royal, Norwich; Dec 9: Congress Theatre, Eastbourne; Dec 10: Lighthouse, Poole.
For further information: rafinconcert.com
