2026 Highlights

Worldwide performers. Audience from near and far. One show we answered the call; A Call To Gather which ran from the 7-29 August 2026. 

Creative Director, Alan Lane returned for a second year, working closely with the team to show a celebration of community in the form of music and dance. The story inspired by ‘The Call 1914’ statue, a Scottish-American memorial standing within West Princes Street Gardens that plays tribute to the Scottish soldiers who served during World War I.  

The voice behind the call of this year’s show, Outlander star, Richard Rankin represented The Call Statue narrating the audience through the emotional and captivating storyline. 

The show reflected on Scotland’s ability to connect worldwide bringing bands and performers together from different countries. Acts included the Massed Pipes and Drums, The Kings Colour Squadron 63 Squadron Royal Air Force, German Army Band Koblenz, New Zealand Army Band, The United States Army Field Band and the UK Massed Military Bands. With hits by Elton John to the Jackson Five the production displayed a gathering through music, dance and tradition.  

For the first time, the Esplanade hosted the Qatar Police Academy Band and Drill team who demonstrated precision, skill and strength. A moment of silence and reflection, calling audience members back to the root of the show.  

Skerryvore, Tidelines and Skippnish came together on a brand-new song, ‘Everything Worth Fighting For’, in an unforgettable scene led by the Tattoo Performers. With the melody of Scottish folk songs and bright lights the act certainly didn’t just get the dancers dancing as the crowd joined in from their seats.