Flying Proms Symphonic Air Show Returns to The Military Aviation Museum

PRESS RELEASE

Get ready to soar into history as the Flying Proms Symphonic Air Show returns to the Military Aviation Museum this June 15th.  A unique celebration commemorating the 80th Anniversary of D-Day, this one-of-a-kind event combines the thrill of an air show with the elegance of a symphony performance.

Modeled after the beloved British Proms outdoor concert, this Americanized rendition offers a blend of patriotic melodies, dazzling fireworks, vintage warbird displays, delectable food trucks, and family-friendly entertainment. As we honor significant historical anniversaries this year, performances by the Virginia Wind Symphony will feature special pairings that pay tribute to pivotal milestones in the American experience.

Highlights of the program include a moving commemoration of the 80th Anniversary of the D-Day landings in Normandy, France.  “Chalk 40,” the Liberty Foundation’s C-47, joins the aerial tribute as our special guest alongside the iconic music from the renowned series “Band of Brothers.” The stirring score by Michael Kamen will sweep you away with its poignant ballads and powerful crescendos.

A heartfelt tribute to the P-51 Mustang holds special significance as all remember the late Mustang pilot, Clarence “Bud” Anderson, America’s last triple ace, who passed away just days ago at age 102. Paired with Morton Gould’s “American Salute,” composed during the darkest days of WWII, this segment honors the spirit of American resilience embodied by the Greatest Generation.

Additional highlights of the program include commemorations of the Mission Beyond Darkness and the Great Marianas Turkey Shoot in the Pacific Theatre, along with a whistle segment inspired by the film Bridge over the River Kwai, a live performance of the service songs and an opportunity to get up close to the aircraft at intermission.

Ticket options cater to every preference, from general admission lawn seating ideal for picnics, to VIP experiences offering private seating, exclusive bar service, and other premium amenities. For those seeking an elevated experience, private chalets provide the perfect setting for a soirée with friends.

Indulge in a wide array of culinary delights from our selection of food trucks, with beer and wine available for purchase. As dusk descends, prepare for the grand finale as the night sky ignites with a breathtaking fireworks display, concluding the evening on a dazzling note.

Keegan Chetwynd, Museum Director, shares his enthusiasm, stating, “Flying Proms is truly a one-of-a-kind experience in the United States. Witnessing vintage aircraft take flight against the backdrop of an evening sky, accompanied by the Virginia Wind Symphony, evokes a profound connection to the stories of our past. It’s not just a fantastic family outing; it’s a celebration of history. And what better way to cap it off than with a spectacular fireworks display!”

For Flying Proms tickets, visit the event website at: www.militaryaviationmuseum.org

If you have any questions, please call (757) 721-7767 or visit https://militaryaviationmuseum.org/. The Military  Aviation Museum is located at 1341 Princess Anne Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23457.

About the Military Aviation Museum:

A 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit organization, the Military Aviation Museum is home to one of the world’s largest collections of airworthy military aircraft from the first 50-years of flight. Truly a living museum, its aircraft are in restoration at facilities around the world. Besides the main Museum the Virginia Beach complex features additional exhibition spaces, including a mid-1930s Luftwaffe hangar, originally from Cottbus, Germany, which now serves to house the Museum’s collection of WWII-vintage German aircraft. Additional structures include the WWI Hangar, and the original control tower from RAF Goxhill built in England in 1942. Visit www.militaryaviationmuseum.org for more information or call 757-721-7767.