Scouts and Guides to appear in Christchurch’s 43rd Gang Show at The Regent Centre
Scouts and Guides are set appear in a Gang Show at Christchurch Regent Centre later this month continuing a tradition that has spanned seven decades.
Featuring sketches and musical numbers designed to appeal to all ages, the show will be performed by a cast of local children. It will be rolled out for two evening performances on Friday 21st and Saturday 22nd February, plus a matinee show on the Saturday.
The original Gang Show format was created by Somerset-born actor, songwriter, and theatre producer Ralph Reader, who was also a Scout.
Following performances at London’s Scala Theatre in the early 1930s, the concept was formally adopted by the RAF as a way of keeping up morale, and Gang Show units toured bases from Iceland to Burma.
This year’s performance will be the 43rd since the inaugural Christchurch Gang Show, which was held in 1960 in the Priory church hall. There will be a non-stop extravaganza of songs, dance routines, sketches, skits, slapstick and stand-up comedy for all ages, with a cast of more than 70 young people and adults.
Christchurch Scouts spokesperson John Gregson said: “The cast has been rehearsing hard every week, and are really looking forward to putting on this fun variety show.
“The Gang Show provides the youngsters with valuable stage experience, including the discipline of learning and rehearsing scripts, alongside team building with adults and other members of the group. They also have a lot of fun entertaining others and would love to see you at one of their shows!”
Tickets are priced £16 for adults and £12 for concessions.
For more information and bookings visit www.regentcentre.co.uk or call the box office on 01202 499199.