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This site is dedicated to Gang Shows all around the
world.
So what is a Gang Show?
A Gang Show is a variety show staged by Scouts and
Guides - generally to a high standard that Ralph
Reader
would recognise as carrying on the very best traditions of Gang Show
and the theatrical arts. A Red Necker Gang Show (eg Reading, Oxford and
the South-East Berks in England) symbolise the highest standards of
excellence. (A Red Necker is a prestigious award bestowed by the London
Gang Show Fellowship.)
And this just doesn't involve the
actors and dancers and others in the cast. The Gang Show is made up of
over
two
hundred people - not just the hundred-odd cast on stage - and covers
all areas of the
modern theatre from lighting, scenery, costume, music and orchestra,
audio, special
effects, and energetic ticket sellers.
The Story
Gang Show had its beginning in England in 1932 by
a
young Rover Scout, Ralph Reader, who was making a name for himself in
theatrical circles. In fact, Ralph was already a famous and sought
after choreographer on Broadway - but his life took a remarkable twist
after he wrote and produced the first Gang Show to raise money for a
local swimming pool. Recognising the worth of this form of training,
Baden-Powell encouraged Reader to continue. He did - and went on to
establish
the world famous London Gang Show tradition, as well as writing the
words and music to
hundreds of songs and sketches, including the world famous song "We're
Riding
Along on the Crest of a Wave" (1934).
From that small beginning, the Gang Show has
become one
of the traditions of Scouting and has given Royal Command performances
- the only amateur act to ever receive this honour.
Sir Harry Secombe, Sir Richard Attenborough, Peter
Sellers, Darryl Stewart, Max Bygraves, Spike Milligan, Norrie Paramour,
Dick Emery, Tony Hancock and many other stage and film stars were
involved in Gang Shows early in their careers and have contributed in
building the Gang Show tradition.
Gang Shows then spread quickly to many other
countries
around the world , as well as to most capital cities here in Australia.
It is often said that a Gang Show is playing somewhere in the world
every night of the year !
The Ralph
Reader Memorial Fund was
established after his death in 1982. Its aim is to offer financial
assistance to any member of the Scout and Guide movements, in
particular, young people who want to enter the theatrical profession or
take part in a special activity, such as the World Jamboree. To date,
over 43,000 pounds has been granted from the Fund.
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The
Gang Show Story