An evening with "doe den tap toe" in Basel
MUSIC FESTIVAL The Basel Tattoo celebrated its 10th anniversary from July 17 to 25, 2015. With new show acts, lighting effects and vocals, the anniversary show was a special occasion. Companies had the opportunity to enjoy the spectacle as part of a hospitality offer.This article was published in the October issue of the trade magazine "Meetings & Events"We would also like to know from youwhat makes a good hospitality offer. Let us know what you think at the end of the article!It is quiet in the Basel Kaserne. The spectators gaze at the still empty arena. Until the heavy wooden doors finally open. The tenth Basel Tattoo has begun. With drums, whistles and swinging sticks, the performers march onto the square and open the anniversary show, starting with a song by the Basel Tattoo music director. With his self-composed piece, Christoph Walter mixes the tried and tested with the new. This is followed by the largest massed pipes and drums formation: various bands such as "The Old Rustic Bridge", "The Steam Boat" and "Drum Fanfare" enter the arena and heat things up. They increase the sounds more and more. The audience is shown the concentrated power of military music.
The Basel Tattoo enchants around 8000 spectators with formations from various countries.Tattoo: Doe den tap toeThe first drum beat at the music festival in Basel in 2006. The visionary behind it is Erik Julliard. He himself was a member of the show drum band "Top Secret Drum Corps" and performed at the tattoo's place of origin, Edinburgh. Convinced by the magic of the event, he brought the tattoo to Switzerland. Many people understand the term "tattoo" to mean the art of having an image or symbol engraved on the skin. In this case, however, it is a Dutch expression. "Doe den tap toe" is a call from the 17th century that was used to herald the military night's rest. Translated, it means "close the tap". This is because it was customary to have a beer before resting. In the 2015 performance, the term was explained and demonstrated by a few extras. In the nine years since then, the Basel Tattoo has become the second largest military music event in the world.A variety from all over the worldBut military music alone does not make the Basel Tattoo what it is today. 1000 participants from 20 countries flock to the festival to show their piece of home. Dance, acrobatics and drama are just as much a part of it as a tambourine, trumpet player or singer. This concentration of customs, tradition and modernity from different cultures makes the Basel Tattoo unique. Julliard travels the world in search of new talent for the show. Highlights in 2015 include the musical "War Horse". This tells the story of a friendship between humans and animals. The "Blue Devils", an international drumming group with 97 members, were not to be missed. They performed an act with drum, horn and dance elements. The festival is complemented by the "Basel Tattoo Street". There are 15 stalls around the site offering snacks and drinks.A festival with humorAnyone who thinks that the event is serious is mistaken. This year, a new formation was integrated into the program, giving the Basel Tattoo that certain something. With their daring tricks, the Imps Motorcycle Display Team brought many a smile to the faces of the spectators. The acrobats are aged between six and 16, and when the presenter announces a little later that one of the youngsters has run off with his motorcycle, the smiles turn into loud laughter. Especially when the fugitive, pursued by the police, races through the next acts.Cozy get-togetherIf you would like to visit the Tattoo in a special setting, there is a wide range of offers to suit every customer requirement. Small and large companies can celebrate their event in the Basel Tattoo Lounge. This has modern furnishings and is located next to the arena. The lounge is suitable for up to 300 people. Benches, bar tables and armchairs provide additional ambience. Guests also have the privilege of taking a closer look at one of the show's attractions: a Mercedes 300SL "Gullwing" from the 1950s. Guests have the opportunity to choose from two menu options: The "Drummers Apéro " consists of light hot and cold appetizers and a selection of desserts. The "Queens Cocktail" offers light and hearty dishes. An after-show snack is served after the show. The Cigar Lounge is connected to the other lounges, is sponsored by Davidoff and invites you to enjoy a cigar and whisky. The Basel Tattoo Pub is also located in the immediate vicinity of the arena. Snacks and various beers are served by the glass in the typically rustic ambience of the former Rossstall.
The Basel Tattoo lounges in the tents offer space for a company party.Within your own frameworkJust a few minutes' walk from the festival site, there are two rooms that are ideal for private parties or pre-event conferences. The Museum Kleines Klingental, for example, which dates back to the 13th century, is located directly on the banks of the Rhine and can accommodate up to 250 people. The Rappaz Museum houses the life's work of the artist Rolf Rappaz. It can accommodate up to 40 people. The Basel Tattoo offer is rounded off with the Skyboxes. This "box" offers the best view of the show, covered seating, luxurious furnishings and a stylish atmosphere. It offers space for 24 people. Guests are also served drinks and food here.
The Basel Tattoo Pub. Author: Melanie Granados
What do you think?Festivals are often visited as part of a hospitality offer. What makes a good one for you? Let us know what you think!
The answers will be collected and published in two weeks in the Conferences & Events Newsletter published.
