Edinburgh Gang Show 2013

I have seen Gang Show many, many times over the years and each year seems to surpass the year before. Over 200 youngsters entertained us with an evening of fabulous singing and dancing interspersed with sketches which were both topical and extremely amusing. AJ is so skilled in writing such clever sketches which never fail to poke fun at politicians, Alex Salmond in particular, and which incorporate current issues and local humour. His panto “Peter Pants” was brilliant with Tinker Bell being “flown in” by stage crew and the Lost Boys appearing in their Hearts football strips! “Legends” where human sounds effects had to replace failing electronic sound effects in the Robin Hood story was hilarious. The youngsters in these sketches were so spontaneous in their reactions and had the audience in stitches. “Dead Miserables” was also a winner with some young Scots singing about their woes to a very cleverly arranged medley of tunes from Les.Mis. with Sue Bo concluding the arrangement with the final top note –fab!.

Compiling a contrasting programme like this is no mean feat and the variety of music was tremendous. .We had swing music which included Katy Perry’s “Roar,” a fabulous “Imagination” section which was a real spectacle to see with its stunning costumes and great numbers from “Top Hat“ sung and danced brilliantly bringing  the first act to a cracking conclusion. Act 2 got off to a wonderful start with the number “Seize the Day” from “The Newsies” quite exhilarating followed by the Proclaimers   “Sunshine” which was stirring and sung with great gusto. The variation in dance styles including ballet, tap and contemporary dance were all well executed throughout. The Junior Gang were quite delightful particularly in “Fun in Space” where they put heart and soul into their singing and imaginative choreography particularly “Reach.” Their white space suits and green aliens costumes were very eye catching.

The numerous musical numbers, big production numbers and dance routines all ran so smoothly with the transition from one grouping to another appearing seamless and effortless to those on stage. So many youngsters were given an opportunity to shine and show off their talents and none seemed phased by any minor mishaps or by facing such a huge audience in this wonderful theatre, As well as excellent ensemble singing there were some first class solo performances creating appropriate ambience through song and dance.

What is perhaps most striking in a production like this is the fun these youngsters are having combined with obvious team work, discipline and the support which individuals give each other. The cast have an enormous amount to learn and must dedicate many hours to rehearsing but of course to reach such a high standard also involves tremendous time and commitment from the production team, stage crew and the numerous helpers who support behind the scenes. I take my hat off to all of them and congratulate them as well as the performers.

As always the finale “Believe” was quite emotive and reminds us that these young people are primarily part of the Scout/Guide movement and proud of it. This was yet another superb Gang Show which left me with a real feel good factor. Many of the amazing sets and costumes and the sheer joy of the production wouldn’t be lost on a professional stage.

A wonderful evening –Thank you.

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