Soldiers and performers from Bermuda have travelled to the US to take part in an international tattoo.

A 75-member contingent from the Island will perform at the Virginia International Tattoo along with hundreds of others from around the world this weekend.

The event is the largest military tattoo in North America and forms part of the Virginia Arts Festival, which this year celebrates America’s 400th anniversary.

Captain Dwight Robinson, director of music for Bermuda Regiment Band, said it was fitting that the Island should be involved as its founding and history was closely linked to the early settlers in Virginia.

The shared history led the Bermuda contingent to chose the theme: The Ties that Bind. Captain Robinson said: “The theme not only represents our historic relationship with Virginia over four centuries, but it is a fitting description of Bermuda’s own unique cultural development and speaks to our success in working together as one.”Those performing in the port city of Norfolk are from Bermuda Regiment Band, Bermuda Islands Pipe Band, Grupo Folclorico Vasco de Gamma (a Portuguese cultural dance troupe) and H&H Gombey Troupe. The festival marks the first time the four groups have performed together on a world stage.

Regiment spokesman Major Stephen Caton said: “All of the participants are honoured to be representing Bermuda and sharing our culture beyond our shores. We look forward to renewing old acquaintances and establishing new relationships as Bermuda plans to celebrate its 400th anniversary in 2009.”