New Battle of Waterloo to be fought at Usher Hall

ONE of Britain’s greatest military triumphs will be commemorated on its 200th anniversary during a spectacular event held in the Capital.

The Battle of Waterloo, seen in the painting above, will be commemorated by a show featuring the likes of the Royal Marines ban. Picture: Getty

More than 300 performers will bring to life decisive moments from the Battle of Waterloo in a dramatic musical and theatrical pageant, entitled Eve of Waterloo.

Producers have promised striking theatrical flourishes, compelling orchestral pieces, and top-class performances from a talented array of actors, musicians, singers and dancers at the Usher Hall on June 11.

Star performers will include the band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines Scotland, the Pipes and Drums of the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards and the Royal Regiment of Scotland in company with Erskine Stewart’s Melville Schools Choir.

The Battle of Waterloo in 1815 saw an allied force of British, German and Dutch troops under Wellington face Napoleon’s French army near Waterloo in central Belgium.

The British army’s victory under arguably its greatest general reshaped Europe and led to a generation of peace on the continent.

The national celebration – which will raise funds for services’ charities – will be produced by the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Tattoo chief executive and producer Brigadier David Allfrey said: “The 200th anniversary of Waterloo offers a wonderful opportunity to tell the story of an extraordinary feat of arms.

“The tales of European nations clashing during the Napoleonic Wars are remarkable for any student of military history, while the personal accounts of the soldiers and sailors add a further colourful and poignant dimension.

“Scottish soldiers played a key role in the battle. Indeed, a gold imperial eagle captured that day is on show in Edinburgh Castle, the soldier who seized it is buried on the Castle Esplanade and a huge painting of the engagement is in the Great Hall. ”

Seafarers UK, ABF The Soldiers’ Charity and the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund will all benefit from the production.

Speaking on their behalf, Captain Nick Davies said marking the Battle of Waterloo ­bicentenary in aid of services’ charities was a fitting way to also remember the bravery of the 75,000 casualties of the historic battle.

He said: “We are delighted to join together as service charities to mark the 200th anniversary of a pivotal moment in ­European history with such a spectacular show.”

• Tickets, priced £15-£20, with concessions available, can be bought from the Usher Hall, in Lothian Road, by calling 0131-228 1155 or online at usherhall.co.uk