FORT BENNING, Ga., (July 23, 2014) -- Army Entertainment will present the 2014 U.S. Army Soldier Show Aug. 9 at Wetherby Field.

This year's production, titled "Stand Strong," explores the foundational elements of what instills the strength and character of Soldiers and the Army.

The Broadway-style variety performance is free and open to the public, said Shannon Beck, chief of marketing for Fort Benning's Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation.

"The last time they were here was 2012," Beck said. "The show changes every year with different performers and songs. We always have people who are asking about it."

The show features performers and technicians comprised of Soldiers from installations across the country. Soldiers must audition and spend the beginning of their assignments with Army Entertainment developing and rehearsing for the show before they begin a six-month tour, Beck said. The crew is selected for their ability to perform solo, as well as entertain with musical instruments, work in ensemble dance numbers and inspire an audience from the stage.

"Soldiers performing for other Soldiers dates back to World War I, which means that the show will explore what it means to be ready and resilient in today's Army as a Soldier, spouse, Family member, survivor, retiree or civilian," Beck said. "We would really like the public to be there because it's an entertaining way to get the message across about what it means and how it feels to be a Soldier."

Gates open at 6 p.m. and the show will start at 7 p.m. Coolers are prohibited but guests may bring blankets and lawn chairs for the concert. Food vendors will also be on site. For more information, call 706-545-4499.