The concept of red tape as a boundary preventing progress is probably as old as red tape itself. The analogy depicting bureaucracy and the powers that be standing in our way is a strong one and rarely, if ever, is used in a positive light. It is when we break through what’s holding us back to become what we work to be, to reach our goals, to grow beyond ourselves, that the red tape imagery becomes one of inspiration. That is the idea behind 7th Regiment’s 2024 program, Through the Red Tape.
2024 7th Regiment Show Announcement:
Visually, 7th Regiment put red to use every chance they had. Guard costumes and equipment? Red. Shako plumes? An even darker red. On top of that, plenty of red fabrics used to depict red tape which the corps members can interact with. The corps also added a literal dimension to their show with the use of a large stage behind the front ensemble on side 1 of the field, raising the performers above the rest of the corps while rising above any obstacles in their way.
2024 7th Regiment Repertoire:
The musical selections also break boundaries. Combining music from the anime Attack On Titan with selections from prog rock bands Polyphia and Periphery, 7th Regiment presents a unique audio experience in the drum corps idiom. This is especially impressive as the corps features a percussion section that is of similar size to the brass section, leading to a delicate balancing act in both arranging and performance so the drums do not overpower the horns during key impacts in the show.
2024 7th Regiment Prelims Performance:
7th Regiment is a great example of how an Open Class corps can provide a world class experience to its members. The show design is a total package of eclectic and entertaining music with a visual package which clearly conveys the theme, providing a vehicle which showcases how well the corps performs. This is something 7th Regiment has achieved throughout their history, and I look forward to them continuing to break through the red tape in the future.
