Tops in Blue provides family friendly, free fun

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Matthew Varga
  • 82 Training Wing
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The U.S. Air Force's premier entertainment troupe, "Tops in Blue", made a stop in Wichita Falls Aug. 8 during its world tour performing its musical show "To Dream" for a full house at the Memorial Auditorium. 

"This year we want people to look inside themselves and follow their dreams, whatever that might be," said Staff Sgt. Aisha Smith, public health craftsman from MacDill Air Force Base, Fl. 

The show continues its 56-year tradition as a family show with something for everyone to enjoy. Tops in Blue performed music from almost every genre and decade, reminding the audience of the music each era of Airmen have lived their dreams to, and the songs we live our dreams to today. 

"Even up to the last day you're growing and learning," Sergeant Smith said. "But the best gift is what we provide the Airmen." 

Sergeant Smith spoke for the whole team when she said the best part of performing in Tops in Blue is the "little bit of home" they can bring to the Airmen in deployed locations. 

"We get a thrill, especially in the deployed locations. They are the ones who need the bit of home most," Sergeant Smith said. "They are away from their family and friends." 

The group consists of over 30 members from bases all over the world and the show takes two months to reach performance standards. But the team continues to improve and grow during the year-long tour. 

Any active duty Airman can be a part of Tops in Blue and can apply online at topsinblue.com. 

"It is a great experience and well worth the hard work," said Sergeant Smith who is performing for the second time with the group. 

The show will make over 120 stops on its world tour that began in March. Their next stop is Altus AFB, Okla. The tour ends in March 2010.