The audience sits on the grass facing west towards the Washington Monument, which is directly behind the tent. The rehearsal is rather informal and quite enjoyable.

The performance began with a welcoming fanfare by the Santa Monica High School Marching Band and Drill Team followed by a colorful array of flags during the singing of the National Anthem.

I was charmed by this young girl sitting on her Dad's shoulder. Reminded us of the times when we first moved to Washington in 1983 and brought our young sons, Carl and Neil, to see and hear the concerts.

The master of ceremonies, Barry Bostwick, performing for the camera. The live broadcast in less comfortable clothing will be the next night
 (July 4th).

The crowd picnics and relaxes after many days of rain.

Because this is a televised event, our viewing of the performers is obstructed. There are some who are more equal than others- they sit up close.

Just behind us, far above the Jersey walls, fences, guards, and security checkpoints, our flag waves in the gentle warm breeze.

Those who don't like the grass can sit on the steps of the Capitol.

As the sun sets behind the monuments, the mood gets more mellow.

The dress code is informal. The police and National Park staff were extremely friendly and efficient.

The featured music for the National Symphony Orchestra was written by John Williams. Although he is difficult to see clearly, he is directing the fanfare for the Olympic Games which he first wrote in 1984. A fanfare of trumpets played by members of the Army Band, dressed in white uniforms.

Here we see John Williams (on TV Monitor) receiving an award for his many musical contributions. The orchestra played a medley with film clips from Jaws, ET, Star Wars, Indiana Jones, and more.

As the night gets darker outside, the Capitol becomes magically awesome.

Here Joyce is featured with the Capitol in the background.

The orchestra was great, and there were many other good performers, but Dolly Parton was just outstanding. She sang "9 to 5" and several other songs accompanied by scenes of soldiers and sailors returning home from past wars. There were not many faces without tears before she finished.

After a part of the "1812 Overture" with lots of cannons, the "Grand Old Flag", and "Stars and Stripes Forever" by John Phillips Sousa we were ready to wish "Happy Birthday" #227 to the United States of America.