The 20th Annual Virginia International Tattoo back in Hampton Roads

Norfolk, Va. - The 20th Annual Virginia International Tattoo is back in Hampton Roads this weekend.

Starting Thursday night, 1,400 performers from eight countries will take the stage at Norfolk Scope.

"A tattoo is really just a big collection of military bands," says Stewart Pittman, the supervisor of the Colonial Williamsburg Fife and Drum corp. "Everyone gets their opportunity for a 5-6 minute show to show what they do."

Each group is invited months in advance and is sent the theme and the music so they can practice on their own until it all comes together one time a year.

"I think you should expect to see three things. One a tremendous respect for the military you will feel so proud and patriotic at this show," says Scott Jackson, the producer and director of the show. "Two, tremendous respect for international allies and culture and friendship that we develop through music and three, you're going to see something you never thought you would see, something you never knew you wanted to see."

There's a new theme and a new cast every year, this years theme is 'A time to remember 20 years of spectacular performances and a time to remember 20 years of service and sacrifice'.

Tickets are available at the Virginia Arts Festival box office, 757-282-2822 or 440 Bank Street, Norfolk, Va.

Schedule of performances:

Thursday, April 21 @ 7:30pm

Friday, April 22 @ 7:30pm

Saturday, April 23 @ 7:30pm

Sunday, April 24 @ 2:30pm