Tops in Blue dazzles Denver

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Samantha Saulsbury
  • 460th Space Wing Public Affairs
With dazzling lights, beautiful costumes and precision choreography, the U.S. Air Force's Tops in Blue did not disappoint during their 60th anniversary tour Aug. 19 at the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum, Denver.

These supreme Airmen tour around the world for a nine-month period, performing in 20 countries and more than 70 locations in the United States each year. They dedicate countless hours of their time and talents serving as Air Force ambassadors.

"Tops in Blue is the Air Force's premier entertainment showcase," said Tom Edwards, show producer and chief of Air Force Entertainment.

Earlier this month, Tops in Blue performed for air bases in Korea and Guam. After a short stint of performances in the states, the team will head back overseas to perform for bases in Germany and the United Kingdom.

"Going on a world tour, representing your country, learning more about yourself and more about people: it's amazing," said Team Buckley's own Senior Airman Alysha Davis, a 460th Space Wing Command Post member selected as a Tops in Blue vocalist.

Auditioning was one of the best choices I have ever made, she added.

After auditioning and being made a part of the team, Tops in Blue service members endure a 60-day training period. During this time, the members learn the songs and choreography, while specialists train each vocalist and instrumentalist. They also recieve training on stage presence since the team is constantly in the spotlight.

Although a unique experience, Davis admits that touring can get hard. The team sets up more than 60,000 pounds of required equipment before every performance, acting as their own road crew. Some days, the Tops in Blue team travels to their destination, sets up the stage, performs that night and still tears down afterwards.

"Touring is very different," Davis said. "There are a lot of different personalities here. You end up doing everything together: you're eating, you're sleeping, you're on the tour bus together. It forces you to be a better you."

Despite the hardships, it's no secret that every second is worth it to these service members. They become a family, knowing they have each other to lean on.

"This is my family," Davis said. "This is an opportunity of a lifetime and has definitely made me stronger."