The Bluecoats
American competitive junior drum and bugle corps based in Canton, Ohio, performing in Drum Corps International (DCI) competitions.
Founded in 1972 as a small local organization, The Bluecoats evolved into a premier World Class drum corps. They achieved their first DCI World Championship title in 2016 and are renowned for musical innovation, distinctive uniforms, and groundbreaking show designs.
- The Bluecoats sparked controversy in 2014 by introducing non-traditional uniforms (omitting headgear) and using electronic amplification, challenging drum corps conventions.
- Their 2016 championship-winning show "Down Side Up" featured a slanted performance floor and jazz-inspired repertoire, revolutionizing visual design in the activity.
- In 2019, the corps premiered "The Bluecoats" – a biographical show incorporating rock elements and voiceovers, marking their most personal production to date.
- The corps name references the blue coats historically worn by Canton's police officers, honoring local heritage since their founding.
