The Highland Military Tattoo has been saved for another year after fears poor ticket sales may bring it to a close.
Organisers of the showpiece event said they were “thrilled” as they confirmed its return for a fourth edition.
Four performances of the tattoo will once again be held at Fort George between September 8-10.
The event’s future was thrown into doubt in October after a £40,000 losss over the last three years emerged due to ticket sales and a funding shortfall.
The organisers have added to their marketing operation ahead of this year’s edition in an attempt to increase ticket sales.
Tattoo director, Major General Seymour Monro said, “We are thrilled to be going ahead with the tattoo next year; I am grateful to our supporters for giving us the confidence to press the green
button.
“The tattoo has been hugely enjoyed by past audiences and this year we will additionally be celebrating the heritage of Fort George and commemorating some key milestones in the history of the
RAF.
“Our marketing capabilities have been improved to ensure our Tattoo becomes more widely recognised and have reviewed our Tattoo packages to appeal to a wider audience.”
The 2017 programme is due to celebrate the military heritage of Fort George as well as the 75th anniversary of the RAF regiment at Lossiemouth.
The 18th century fortress will also host the usual mix of traditional and more contemporary acts, including, massed pipes and drums, highland dancing, competitions, vignettes, flypasts and a spectacular fireworks display.
Gaelic will also feature in the repertoire during the year of Gaelic Welcome, when multi-national audiences will have the opportunity to learn a few words themselves.
Organisers have reviewed ticket prices and will introduce a wider range of ticket options to increase the availability of lower priced tickets, making the family event more accessible.
