Edinburgh Gang Show 2023

There was very little sign of first night nerves on the opening night of Edinburgh Gang Show 2023. This was an evening of sheer entertainment with singing, dancing, comical sketches and most importantly fun and laughter.

Many of the 250 plus youngsters had never been on stage before yet appeared completely undaunted by appearing on this huge Festival Theatre stage in front of hundreds of people. The energy, verve and enthusiasm shone through from start to finish and it was obvious that everyone on stage was enjoying the thrill of being part of Gang Show.

Bright red and white costumes lit up the stage as the full company made their entrances with a very young, charming Emma Snowdon leading the opening ‘Up Where We Belong’ which immediately convinced us that all the cast were indeed right up where they belonged.

The ensemble work was quite inspiring with big song and creative dance routines which were brilliantly choreographed and executed by an energetic and confident cast .

Lara Brechin’s vocally strong ‘Celestial’ took us into a ‘Space Adventure’ with lavish costumes, space men and robots and even a rocket taking off. ‘Pick Out A Simple Tune’ was quite beautiful to watch with its various styles of dance and strong vocals. I have to applaud Maria McDonald for competently singing and dancing her way through the number.

‘We Got The Beat’ certainly had the stage rocking with the cast in full voice and giving it their all as Ellie Tullis most powerful voice led the company in ‘I Wanna Rock’.

These big production numbers in the first act were interspersed with some most amusing sketches which allow time for this huge cast to change costume and be ready for the next item in the programme - a feat in itself! Andy Johnston doesn’t miss a trick when writing his sketches with his up to the minute references to current affairs. ‘The Scottish Music Museum’ was a masterpiece. Video projection showing the interior of the museum brought the scene to life and gave the opportunity to make a cheeky reference and subtle response when asked if this might be Nicola Sturgeons house. We were reminded of the many famous Scottish singers and musicians over the years and I have to commend the young ladies who recited their names in a clever and very fast tongue twister where every word was heard . ‘500 Miles’ sung and moved in the style of ‘One Day More’ from ‘Les. Mis’ was a stroke of genius. Lara Brechin and Ellie Tullis worked wonderfully together as the two pandas bidding ‘So Long Farewell’ to Edinburgh zoo. Animated and funny they literally bounced off each other.

The Junior Gang are always a delight. They all looked enchanting in their circus costumes when ‘The Circus Comes To Town’ and exuded enthusiasm while concentrating carefully on their moves. There may have been some individual interpretations of the moves but there is certainly a team spirit as they helped and supported each other. The joy on their faces is wonderful to see.

‘Christmastown’ kicked off the second act with the cast of reindeer and elves lighting up the stage and getting us into the festive mood.

There were many different styles of dance throughout the programme which were executed with confidence by the main ensemble and the team of very skilled specialist dancers. There was also a very varied selection of musical styles including rock, pop and numbers from musicals which were well supported by an orchestra who maintained the balance of sound between the stage and the pit. Tara Bolton’s rendition of Kate Bush’s ‘Running Up The Hill’ was so powerful. Matthew Knowles has an amazing voice and gave a most impressive, memorable performance of Sam Ryder’s ‘Fought & Lost,’

Young Joey Breeze was in fine voice introducing ‘Seize The Day’ which was emphatically delivered and moved by a determined group of News Boys. The musical ‘Billy Elliot’ is always a favourite and Rohan Arnold’s ‘Electricity’ was most appealing.

The finale of Gang Show is always emotive as the youngsters proudly wear their uniforms making a glorious sound as they sing their traditional closing numbers reminding us that they do indeed have a lot to be thankful for. Video projection of the streets of Edinburgh once again added to the animation as the company sang the number which was followed by the stirring, moving climax to the show.

This was a real spectacle of a production wonderfully costumed, sparkling vocally and in its super and expressive dance and movement all enhanced by imaginative lighting and scenery. Reaching a standard like this demands incredible hard work and commitment not just by those on stage but by a production team and the many adults who support the young people not only during rehearsals but also getting them on and off stage ensuring that they are wearing the correct costume and keeping a sense of calmness! Providing them with an opportunity they will never forget.

Gang Show must surely demonstrate team work and discipline at its very best.

It is always an absolute pleasure to attend Gang Show and see the up and coming talent and the opportunity given to all these youngsters to share the camaraderie of being on stage. I applaud everyone who in any way contributed to this joyous production. Fabulous.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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