BATTLE OF THE KEYS
‘Tis the season for some musical cheer with Battle of the Keys! From holiday hits to your favorite chart-topping singles, incredible musicians Stephen Dakin, Marc Van Lue, and Polina Senderova are here to help ring in the festive season. Hear the greatest hits and cheeriest tunes in creative covers that bring fresh life to old favorites and new hits alike.
If you’re looking for some holiday fun, look no further—we’re bringing it straight to you with Battle of the Keys! Gather your friends and get ready to spread some cheer!
| Mon 1 Dec 2025 | ITALY GHEDI AB | PERFORMANCE |
| Tue 2 Dec 2025 | ITALY USAG VICENZA | PERFORMANCE |
| Wed 3 Dec 2025 | ITALY NSA NAPLES | PERFORMANCE |
| Thu 4 Dec 2025 | ITALY NSA NAPLES | PERFORMANCE |
| Sat 6 Dec 2025 | SPAIN NS ROTA | PERFORMANCE |
| Sun 7 Dec 2025 | SPAIN MORON AB | PERFORMANCE |
| Wed 10 Dec 2025 | TURKEY INCIRLIK AB | PERFORMANCE |
| Fri 12 Dec 2025 | PORTUGAL LAJES AB | PERFORMANCE |
| Sun 14 Dec 2025 | PORTUGAL LISBON NAVAL BASE | PERFORMANCE |
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How do I get schedule information on specific shows?
We make it easy. The calendar and menu of events are categorized by genre and region, right here on our site.
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Why do entertainers perform for the military?
Performers need to perform. It's in their DNA. Plus, going on tour with Armed Forces Entertainment is an opportunity for artists to give back and honor the sacrifices deployed servicemembers and their families make on behalf of our country. For up-and-coming artists, touring with AFE is a great way to build an audience. For established artists, it's an up-close-and-personal way to say thanks to fans.
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How much do tickets cost?
It's FREE to attend every Armed Forces Entertainment show. Every single show, every single time.
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Why are there occasional schedule changes?
Sometimes emergencies and personal challenges pop up for scheduled artists. Add the uncertainty of world politics, and tour agendas inevitably shift. We rush the updates to the effected venue and make changes to the online show schedule as quickly as possible. It doesn't happen often, but it does happen, and we're sorry for the inconvenience.
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Can I invite non-military people to AFE events?
It depends on the rules of your installation. In general, yes, non-military guests are allowed at AFE shows. But military personnel are our priority.
Pianist Stephen Dakin has been passionate about music from a young age. After studying music theory and performing in several drum and bugle corps, he started touring with Top-40 bands before discovering dueling piano venues and making a career switch. He has performed at clubs all over the United States, including stints as the musical director for popular clubs like Howl at the Moon in Houston and Norman’s Dueling Piano Bar in Humble, Texas.
Pianist and musician Mark Van Lue is a dynamic and energetic performer whose live performances have taken him around the world. From playing for the troops to private venues and everything in between, his specialty is bringing energy to live crowds and creating positive and fun experiences.
Music director and multi-instrumentalist Polina Senderova has an impressive resume in live music, including providing musical direction for live off-Broadway shows, performing with iconic dueling piano venues Howl at the Moon, Dueling Pianos, Piano Works in London and Haswell Green’s in New York City. She has performed for troops around the world and has performed piano, violin, bass, drums, guitar and vocals at private venues worldwide.
We’ve got your back with the latest announcements and highlights so you never miss a moment from our tours.