As the Virginia International Tattoo gears up for its highly anticipated performance at Scope Arena later this week, a group of local children received an exclusive preview of the show on Monday at Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters (CHKD). The event was a heartwarming opportunity for young patients undergoing treatment to experience the vibrant music and artistry of the tattoo in a more personal setting.
The performers, including drummers and musicians from the Virginia International Tattoo, didn’t just play for the children—they also took the time to engage with them by teaching them how to play the drums and even allowing them to join in on the music. The interactive session allowed the children, many of whom are facing serious health challenges, to experience a sense of normalcy and excitement, something that can often be in short supply in a hospital environment.
Shannon Hood, the director of integrative care at CHKD, explained the significance of events like these in the healing process. “The hospital is more than just medicine,” Hood said. “Kids need more than medicine to get well. And I think this was the perfect medicine for today.” The event gave the children the chance to experience joy and connection through music, helping to brighten their day and lift their spirits.
Hood shared her enthusiasm as she watched the kids come alive in the presence of the performers. “It was so much fun to watch,” she said, noting the visible excitement as the children interacted with the musicians and played the instruments themselves. The event was a refreshing reminder that healing can take many forms, and music has the unique ability to bring comfort and joy, even in the most difficult of circumstances.
The Virginia International Tattoo, known for its spectacular performances that blend military precision with rich cultural traditions, provided a special moment for these young patients—allowing them to be part of something larger than themselves, if only for a brief time. For many of the children, this hands-on experience with the performers was not just a preview of an exciting event, but also an opportunity to create lasting memories and feel like ordinary kids again, despite the challenges they face in the hospital.
As the performers packed up and prepared for their upcoming show, it was clear that the impact of their visit would resonate far beyond the music. For the kids at CHKD, it was a moment of connection, healing, and joy—a reminder that even in the most difficult times, something as simple as a drumbeat can provide the perfect medicine.
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