PASADENA, Calif. (Pasadena Tournament of Roses/ www.tournamentofroses.com) - This year's Rose
Parade is truly going to be magical. For the first time in its history, the Pasadena Tournament of Roses is producing its own opening act. Sponsored by Wells Fargo, this magical extravaganza will feature Grammy Award Winning
Superstar Leann Rimes debuting the world premiere of her newest hit, "Something's Gotta Give," from her latest album, "This Woman." Adding to Leann's performance, are the pageantry of colorful floats, equestrian units and marching bands that have made the Rose
Parade famous around the world. Sprinkled throughout the
Parade for the first time, will be additional entertainment provided by Grammy Award winning vocalist
Toni Braxton (performing on the NAMM float), Lance Burton (performing on the FTD float) and a Disney youth chorus (performing on the Disney Parks float). The three floats with performers will pause in front of the television cameras so everyone can enjoy the performances.
"Just like everyone else in America and around the world, I have grown up with the Rose Parade, the marching bands, the beautiful floats on New Years Day, said Leann Rimes. "I'm so excited to be able to perform at the parade this year. It's a part of history and a magical way to kick off 2006," she added.
This year's theme is "It's Magical" and that's what the Parade will be all about. In addition to this year's exceptional performers, the Rose Parade will feature a very special guest. While she won't be performing, Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor will travel the Parade route as this year's Grand Marshal.
"I can't think of a more magical Rose Parade," said Tournament of Roses President, Libby Evans Wright. "What could be better than having Leann Rimes treat us to a spectacular opening performance; Justice Sandra Day O'Connor ride the parade route as our Grand Marshal; and Toni Braxton, Lance Burton and youth singers provide entertainment throughout?"
The 117th Rose Parade themed "It's Magical" will take place Monday, Jan. 2, 2006 at 8 a.m. (PST) featuring majestic floral floats, high-stepping equestrian units and spirited marching bands traveling from all across the nation. On Wednesday, Jan. 4, at 4:30 p.m. (PST), the 92nd Rose Bowl Game will host the BCS National Championship Game between the two top-ranked teams in the nation, showcasing the best of collegiate football. For additional information on Tournament of Roses activities please visit the official Tournament of Roses website at https://www.tournamentofroses.com.
