As with any momentous event, such as a wedding, graduation, or play, diligent preparation is key. And as anticipation mounts for the historic inauguration of President-elect Barack Obama, the importance of a walk-through is paramount. Each step in the day’s celebrations and ceremonies must be planned to the letter, ensuring a celebration that is memorable and includes as few kinks, if any, as possible.
The Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies (JCCIC) will hold a dress rehearsal for the 2009 inaugural ceremonies on Jan. 11. The rehearsal will include run-throughs of the swearing-in ceremony on the west front of the Capitol, the presidential review of troops on the east front, the departure ceremony, and the inaugural parade along Pennsylvania Avenue.
The president-elect, the vice president-elect, and their wives will be represented by stand-ins, and there will be more than 3,000 marching in the inaugural parade rehearsal. The participants will mostly consist of military personnel.