Over 170 young stars are shaping up to give Biggleswade a centenary gangshow to remember. Billed as the cast of the century, these Scouts and Guides have been rehearsing since November to give folk of the town a show they will talk about for years. It will also be an extravaganza to commemorate the 100^th anniversary of the start of the Guide Movement in 1910.

With a history going back 35 years, the producers have something to beat. But they are more than up to the challenge. They have gathered together almost 30 traditional songs, dance routines and sketches that will thrill their public. Back in 1975 the Gangshow played to audiences of 90 in the hall of Trinity Methodist Church. This year they expect over 500 folk from all over the county to their two performances in the much bigger venue of Stratton Upper School.

The sheer scale of the operation takes your breath away. There are 173 young stars aged from five to 20 supported by 38 leaders. Backstage a crew of 12 will make sure everything runs smoothly and a lighting and sound team will try to keep up with the fast moving acts.

Producer Nick Gurney who ran his first Gangshow in 1978 said, “It’s wonderful to see so many young people working together to produce a show that has all the ingredients of a west end musical. There are few other places where youngsters get the chance to experience the thrill of performing on stage, make life-long friendships and entertain paying audiences. The young cast have another 150 hours of rehearsals in front of them before the curtain rises on the first performance but already they are looking like real professionals. I’m proud of them.”

Emma Warner, a 15 year old Explorer Scout from Biggleswade remarked, “This is all about Guides and Scouts having the time of their lives. For me it gives me the self confidence to stand up in front of a huge audience and perform. It will be good experience for next year when I attend the World Scout Jamboree in Sweden.”

Pianist Joan Tolston of the Trefoil Guild who joined the Brownies 65 years ago said, “I really enjoy coming to these shows to put the girls and boys through their musical paces. We have 28 songs to rehearse and many of them have dance numbers as well. In Guides you retire as a leader at 65 but the Trefoil Guild allows you to keep going. It’s wonderful.”

Ten year old Brownie Guide Cathy Olphin of the 1^st Northill and Ickwell Pack added, “My role is to narrate the story of Cinderella and for that you need to have a clear voice. I was lucky to be chosen from the whole pack. I want to do drama at school and perhaps perform in the Sound of Music so this will be a great experience.” 

The celebration show will run for two performances on Saturday 20^th March at Stratton Upper School. And tickets are available from Satchells Estate Agents in the High Street. You can get a preview of the show and the people involved on the website: www.Biggleswadegangshow.org.uk

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