Review of The 61st Gang Show - Harpenden Public Halls

When you hear that a 10 year-old Cub has walked through the snow from Gustard Wood to Harpenden to take his part in the Gang Show, you get a sense of the commitment involved from the remarkable young people that make up The Harpenden and Wheathampstead District Scouts.

Having never been to a Gang Show before, I really didn’t know quite what to expect but my mind was wide open. The show was a sell out but the day’s heavy snowfalls had led to a few ticket returns. Nethertheless, the people of Harpenden came out in force to support their own, in high spirits, anticipating the excitement that lay in store for them.

Katie Radcliffe, 18, has taken part in Gang Show for the last three years and just before she went on stage she shared ‘ I love it because it’s fun rehearsing. You would think it was a drag but it’s good being with your friends, there’s lots of energy.’ For Stephen Playle, a veteran cast member with nine Gang Shows under his 18-year old belt, the best thing about taking part is ‘the buzz that you get when the curtains open.' Heckled for the cliché by his fellow cast members, Stephen went on to explain that I’d later see him on stage as rapping judge, an oompa loompa and a schoolboy in detention – setting the scene for a diverse variety show.

At 7.30pm, the audience, soberly took to their feet in The Eric Morecambe Hall to sing The National Anthem. When the curtains opened a more jubilant mode instantly took over as the cast of 152 burst into song with ‘I just want to Celebrate Another Day of Living,’ a credible, high energy number, accompanied by broad smiles, a rainbow of polo shirts and snazzy, gold waistcoats. The choreography, credited to Peter Lovatt aka Dr Dance Lovatt, was slick with jazz hands a plenty, despite the limitations of a crowded stage. The young people on stage, aged between 10 and 18 certainly looked like they were celebrating, more so they looked like one very large and happy family. And that extended in to the audience too, with many previous Gang Show participants applauding, alongside proud parents and school friends, who offered raucous support for their mates.

The Cubs confidently delivered their sketch, ‘Horrid Henry VIII and His Six Girlfriends, written and produced by County Commissioner, Ricky Harrington, demonstrating an aptitude for great comic timing and singing talent.

Ewan Murray, the show’s producer of 17 years, explained that whilst the format of the show is a traditional one, which the audience expect and enjoy, the challenge each year is to add something different. The scene entitled ‘A Quarter of…’ featured a colourful sweet shop backdrop to the stage, and a medley of songs from the 50’s and 60’s including ‘Sweets for my Sweet,’ ‘Lollipop,’ and ‘I love you baby,’ culminating in this year’s new treat; a scout-sized, giant jelly baby in a head-to-toe red body stocking.

But the biggest challenge facing Ewan and his team is the fact that 84 Cubs, Scouts and Explorers, who applied to be part of the show remained on the waiting list, such is its popularity.

Alongside me sat Jill Bartlett, who told me she ‘wouldn’t miss the Gang Show for the world.’ Her own son first took part as a Cub in the show in 1988 and she’s been every year since. Jill’s enthusiasm for the show radiates and she believes it gives young people ‘something to aspire to’.

With vibrant song, dance and comedy sketches, it is easy to see how the likes of Jill make this an annual must-see event. It is the ultimate feel-good show - just the job to blow away the January blues. I take my hat off to each and every member of the cast and the dedicated team behind the scenes. My advice to you, go and see it, you will be impressed and entertained.  And if you can’t get a ticket (only returns available for the remaining shows), put a note in your diary for the beginning of November when next year’s tickets go on sale.

Did you take part in the show? Were you in the audience? Give us your view of it here at harpendenpeople.

Coming soon on harpendenpeople – 'Backstage at The Gang Show'