After three months of rehearsing, Swindon’s most theatrical Scouts and Guides have returned to the stage following a six-year hiatus.
Swindon Gang Show is taking place from Thursday, November 23 to Saturday, November 25 at the Wyvern Theatre, and it's a family favourite that promises to get all the kids dancing in their chairs.
The annual Scout and Guide variety show takes place in cities around the country, but Swindon's gang took a big hit when the Covid-19 pandemic hit.
Performing for the first time since 2018, show chairman Andy Munday now says they're back and better than ever.
"Expect a great mix of songs, from Abba to The Waterboys, The Beatles to Bowie, and everything in between," he said.
"We'll always do our best to leave you with a smile on your face."
The mere logistics of getting 57 Cubs, Brownies, Scouts, Guides and Leaders up on stage to sing, dance and act with more costume changes than you can count deserves a round of applause for the adult volunteers.
Gang Show's opening night was a hit, and the gang certainly let Swindon know that they're back, opening with classic songs such as 'Backstreet's Back' rewritten to the anthem 'Gang Show's Back'.
Particular highlights include a comedy sketch set in an NHS waiting room which had the crowd in stitches, and pyrotechnics, smoke machines, disco balls and launching rockets that left every kid in the audience oohing and aahing.
A special mention also has to go to Swindon's finest young magician and his 'beautiful assistant'.
With a cast of all ages, the older members lead with confidence while the younger Cubs and Brownies bring the ultimate cute factor.
And while mums in the audience may particularly love it, Swindon Gang Show is a show that everyone can enjoy, due to the infectious joy and enthusiasm on the performer's faces.
Director Ian Selwood and chairman Andy Munday have clearly gone above and beyond to help the 2023 cast bring the show to life.
"This is our first main show since 2018 and we are all working hard to build back the skill and community to keep this opportunity open for future participants," said Andy.
With entertainment for all the family and feel-good tunes to get you dancing in your seats, Swindon Gang Show continues at the Wyvern Theatre until Saturday, November 25.
As the Scouting motto goes, 'Be Prepared' for a night of fun and laughter.
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