Edinburgh Gang Show

After having been performed at the King's Theatre Edinburgh since 1959, the Edinburgh Gang Show this November celebrates its 52nd anniversary.

With a cast comprising of over 200 Scout members and performances ranging from a variety of dance styles to the short plays filled with comedy, there is something for everyone.

Directed by Andy Johnson, the Edinburgh Gang Show reveals a vibrant and enthusiastic cast whose ages seem to span over two generations, as well as a dedicated production team. The concept of the show itself is fabulous; it's a means by which children of all ages can channel their creativity into something that they can be proud to be involved in.

The Edinburgh Gang Show acts as a hobby or interest for the members which help to reveal the versatile nature of the activities on offer to the young people through such projects like the Scouts. Not only this, the performance itself helps children or young adults to develop in more confident individuals through the medium of a live performance.

Although the productions structure isn’t particularly fluid, it doesn’t detract from the nature of the show; in so much as it reveals where the gang members helped to piece it together.

Throughout the production there is a variety of music that's either sung or danced to; this varies from the distinctly upbeat 'Pencil full of Lead', by Paolo Nutini and sentimental 'Bring him Home' from the musical Les Miserables. The first half was comprised predominantly by Scottish songs or those written by Scottish artists, this helps in highlighting the patriotism and pride that is ever present in today’s society.

The performance itself seems to have been mainly for those on stage to enjoy. the Edinburgh Gang Show could be really appreciated by those who are directly associated with the cast and their friends as there was certainly a sense of pride that emanates from the audience. However, if you're looking for an example of young Scottish performance this is one production that's not to be missed.