Tops in Blue to entertain in Abilene Jan 23

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Carolyn Viss
  • 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The Air Force premier entertainment showcase, Tops in Blue, is scheduled to perform a free concert open to the public at the Abilene Civic Center Jan. 23 at 7:30 p.m.

This 30-member group features one of Dyess' own B-1 maintainers this year, male vocalist Airman Bryce Zabric from the 7th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron.

"This family-friendly entertainment is unlike any other show you would get to see in this area," said Willie Cooper, 7th Services Squadron community center director and the 15-year running point of contact for Tops in Blue here. "You would ordinarily have to travel to some place like Chicago or New York City to see something this extraordinary. The dazzling lights, colorful costumes, and lively music are sure to entertain everybody."

The 90-minute, non-stop, live production is quite a feat for the members of Tops in Blue, he said. They don't travel with a crew to help with the setup or production; the performers self-contained, and they do everything from hauling 50,000 tons of equipment from place to place to shining their own shoes and prepping their costumes.

"You've got to be dedicated to be part of this team," Mr. Cooper said.

This year's theme, "What's Love?" features cover tunes from well-known musicians Tina Turner, Trisha Yearwood, Celine Dion, and Kelly Clarkson, to name a few.

The goal of Tops in Blue is to enhance mission productivity for Air Force members and their families, especially those in remote and isolated locations. During each annual tour, Tops in Blue entertains more than 250,000 military personnel and their families, presenting an average of 120 performances at 100 locations worldwide. The group tours throughout the continental United States, Canada, Europe, Central America, Alaska and the Pacific.

"This is a great opportunity to bring your family for an evening of excitement," said Stephanie Kraly, 7th Services Squadron marketing director. "Airmen with music, dancing and singing abilities especially may be interested in seeing what Tops in Blue does so they can try out to participate. It's also great for parents who may have children interested in the military - it's proof that the military emphasizes morale through entertainment."

The event is open to the Abilene community as well, and it's no accident, she said.

"Because we have such a great relationship with the City of Abilene, we want them to have the opportunity to be entertained as well," Ms. Kraly said. "And not only to be entertained, but to see a polished and outstanding performance from Air Force members, which will inspire military support and patriotism."

Doors open at 7 p.m. and no tickets are required. For more information, call Willie Cooper at 696-4305.