We’ve just heard the news from Scotland that The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is cancelled for 2021.
In the face of ongoing uncertainty due to the COVID-19 Pandemic the internationally renowned event has been forced to postpone for the second year in a row following the cancellation of the event in 2020.
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo attracts audiences of around 220,000 each year thought to be worth more than £100 million to the economy and it’s cancellation again this year is sure to disappoint many however the organizers were keen to highlight that public safety must always be of paramount concern. Current uncertainty regarding legislation and social distancing meant that the organizers were unable to press ahead with the Tattoo this year.
Tattoo chief executive Buster Howes said: “Despite the sense of optimism around the UK’s emergence from the Pandemic and our huge enthusiasm to stage a performance this year, it is now clear that the financial risks we confront in delivering The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, at scale, on the castle esplanade in August are simply too great.
“Consequently, it is with enormous regret and disappointment that we announce the cancellation of the 2021 Tattoo.
“We have for months forensically monitored, assessed and sought to mitigate the constraints and uncertainties involved in mounting our show.
“However, we now reluctantly conclude it would be irresponsible to press on and to risk the longer-term financial viability of our charity, without the ability to underwrite and to offset the potential, substantial economic losses associated with last-minute cancellation obliged by changes in public health policy.”
“This has been a very difficult decision. We appreciate it has far-reaching implications for our staff, performers, suppliers, and guests, but we must act responsibly and, in the best, long-term interests of all.”
“Tickets for 2021 will be refunded in full. For those wishing to join us next year, tickets can be transferred to 2022.”
“A tremendous amount of energy and effort goes into planning and delivering each Tattoo and this year was no exception. This is a very disappointing outcome.”
“We will now refocus to find other ways to contribute to the national spirit of recovery this year and to surprise and delight the people of our city and from further afield.”