Edinburgh Gang Show

It has been 3 years since Edinburgh Gang Show was on stage and the joy of being back was very evident. More than 200 young people graced the stage, many of the younger brownies and cubs never even having seen a Gang Show before. Together the junior team along with the main gang presented an evening of most enjoyable entertainment, fun and nostalgia..

This huge cast was certainly ‘Back in Business’ with a colourful and exuberant opening as brownies, cubs, guides and scouts made their entrances gradually building up to a filled stage singing the opening number, ‘Gang Show’s Back In Town’.

The very diverse programme was a well balanced compilation of song, dance and well directed sketches which showcased the wealth of talent in this group. There was a real variety of musical styles and dances with beautiful balletic routines and stunning tap dancing involving the whole cast in ‘We’re Born to Boogie’.The well choreographed movement was slick, polished and executed with real precision as the cast moved convincingly from one position to the next.

The whole company sang with great enthusiasm and it was wonderful to hear such fantastic soloists of all ages. Whether it was a few lines or a whole number these youngsters sang with real confidence. The section  Alone’ combined fun and humour with fabulous singing from the 2 divas Charlotte Dickson and Honor Dobbie vying for stardom. Two young ladies who I’m sure we will hear more from in the future. Another exceptional voice was that of Matthew Knowles whose ‘Empty Chairs and Empty Tables‘ was sung with such maturity and emotion. ‘Man Was Born To Be Free’ led by Lewis Boyd was another extremely emotive number with the blue and yellow costumes and staging depicting the poignancy of this number and it’s relevance to Ukraine. It appeared that all on stage had a real understanding of what they were singing about. This section ‘Together’ really summed up what Gang Show is all about.

An amusing history lesson delivered most distinctly by the teacher depicted historical moments and well played characters from Scottish history with very impressive backdrops setting the scene.

The junior gang are always a delight to watch. So natural and with no inhibitions looking to each other for help and support if unsure. Their enthusiasm, determination and enjoyment in getting it right is wonderful.

‘Animal Magic’ was the time for audience participation with a very strong compere taking charge of the proceedings on stage and making sure that the audience joined in. Here there were excellent animal costumes and I did like the peeping giraffe.

As always the finale is when we really hear the strong singing and harmonies from these Gang members. It is stirring to see them all proudly wearing their uniforms singing with determination and genuine sincerity that they ‘have a lot to be thankful for.’

Of course a spectacular production like this involving such a large cast doesn’t happen without a huge amount of work and commitment not only from the cast members but the skilled production team and the many helpers behind the scenes. It requires a dedicated team back stage for the numerous costume changes for 200 youngsters. I often wonder what it must be like back stage! Credit must go not only to everyone on stage for their hard work and commitment but to all of the adults who support and encourage these youngsters providing them with the brilliant opportunity to appear in a Gang Show. This must surely be teamwork and camaraderie at its very best.

Amazing scenery, lighting and costumes all added to the splendour of an evening of vibrant song, dance and humorous sketches. Gang Show was certainly back with a bang and I already look forward to next years production.

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