Hannah Werner
We all have a sort of pride when it comes to our nation. Each country with its history, culture, and diversity, has citizens with their own sense of patriotism. Sometimes an overwhelming sense of pride can create barriers between other countries, specifically when it leads to nationalism where a country finds oneself more superior than another. However, other times we can learn from one another and appreciate the patriotism that a country can have. This informational and eye-opening side of national pride was obvious during the Military Tattoo performance in Edinburgh, Scotland. Strong organization was required for the Military Tattoo members around the world to perform their music and dance routines. All incredibly in sync with one another and perfectly on beat, I couldn’t even imagine the time and dedication that it would take to accomplish such a performance. With the cheering of the crowds containing people from around the world, it was an exciting and rare occurrence to see everyone come together to celebrate our backgrounds. With the inclusion of some history from the countries that performed their songs and dances, this put in perspective the amazing journey that each country has been through to get to the point they’re at now. We are all people battling different battles, yet all living life trying to find peace with ourselves and one another. This performance showed me that we are all one in the same, yet uniquely different in how we got here and the cultures and values that define us. Cultural performances like this one break those barriers that can sometimes be put up when we see our countries as completely different and unrelatable to one another. Framed by “cultural conventions” (Hamera and Madison), like clothing, demeanors, languages, etc; I could get a sense of the many differences our countries have, but at the same time I could see the excitement and eagerness that each nation had while performing. We were all here for the same purpose: to share and celebrate our diversity, not to fear or shame it.
This cultural performance was absolutely incredible and breath-taking. I’ve never seen something that has brought more people whom have entirely different backgrounds and culture come together. To say that it was a great performance doesn’t do it justice given the banding together and the colorful, unique performances. I was completely in awe the entire performance. My favorite part was the fireworks when all of the members from each group came together to dance with one another. We may not all have the same beliefs, values, or attitudes, but to harmonize with each other and coordinate such an incredible final song and dance shows that people want to take pride in one another. We want to love, we want to belong, and we want to matter. I LOVED THIS.
Reference:
“Performance Studies at the Intersections”. Madison, Soyini and Hamera, Judith.