Tops in Blue to perform for Airmen, local community

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Whitney Tucker
  • 36th Wing Public Affairs
ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam --  A free, public event is scheduled to take place at the University of Guam field house in Mangilao Nov. 29 at 6:30 p.m.

For the first time in more than a decade, Tops in Blue, the premier entertainment showcase of the U.S. Air Force, will perform for servicemembers and civilians alike.

"This year's show is unique because local residents are able to attend," said Michele Jacobs, 36th Force Support Squadron Hot Spot director. "The wing commander, Brig. Gen. John Doucette, wanted to showcase some of our talented Airmen and share this unique Air Force asset with the community."

Comprised of 35 to 40 of the most gifted dancers, musicians and vocalists the active-duty Air Force has to offer, the group will present "Rhythm Nation," a celebration of the evolution of American music from the early 1900s to the present.

According to the group's fact sheet, Tops in Blue is one of the oldest and most widely traveled entertainment groups of its kind. Since its first world tour in 1953, Tops in Blue has performed on film, produced albums and appeared on national television with legendary TV personalities such as Ed Sullivan, Bob Hope and many others. The enormous and ever-growing popularity of the group has landed them front and center, performing at events such as the Super Bowl, NBA finals and for heads of state and dignitaries.

"This show appeals to individuals of all ages, from all walks of life," Ms. Jacobs said. "The individuals are very talented, the dances are well choreographed and the performance is interactive and engaging."

"Children love the high-tempo dancing and vibrant colors while adults appreciate the quality of the entertainment," she continued.

Not only is Tops in Blue composed of top-notch performers, the group has also mastered the art of self-sufficience.

"This is a group of very hardworking individuals," Ms. Jacobs said. "This year's tour took the members throughout the continental United States and to more than 20 countries with close to 140 performances in just 10 months. For each show the performers set up and tear down more than 60,000 pounds of staging, lighting, audio, video and special effects equipment."

Representing a wide variety of career specialties, Tops in Blue is an elite group of the most gifted non-professional entertainers throughout the Air Force. These Airmen display pride, patriotism and dedication to their unique mission: promoting and improving morale for Airmen, their families and all who devote themselves to the fight for freedom.