Queen sends her best wishes ahead of the opening night of Scouts and Guides 50th Gang Show

Published on Tuesday 17 November 2009 08:55

SCOUTS and Guides taking to the stage for the 50th Gang Show have been given some last-minute words of encouragement from the Queen.

Comedian Ronnie Corbett and the Proclaimers have also written to the young performers, as they prepare for the opening night at the King's Theatre this evening. Charlie and Craig Reid also visited the Usher Hall last week to meet the cast.

The Gang Show has become a pre-Christmas tradition, featuring comedy sketches, musical numbers and a full orchestra, and organisers hope this year's will be the best ever, as they celebrate their half century.

The Prime Minister and First Minister have also congratulated the performers on the milestone.

Around 200 Scouts, Guides, Brownies and Cubs, aged between eight and 29, have spent the past three months polishing their performances.

The show is mainly written and directed by Andy Johnston, who has been involved for 30 years, and it has already helped launch many successful careers, most recently Joseph star Craig Chalmers.

The Queen wrote: "As patron of the Scout Association, I was most interested to learn of the show.

"I send my best wishes to all concerned for a memorable and enjoyable event."

Comedian Ronnie Corbett said he was sorry he would be missing the performance, but had fond memories of the Gang Show. He wrote: "As a very keen Cub Scout in my early days (22nd Newington Cub Scout Group, if I remember correctly) it pleases me greatly to wish you all the best in your celebrations.

"I of course had the great pleasure of appearing at the King's Theatre in a great production of Cinderella with the great Stanley Baxter as the other Ugly Sister.

"So, tying both associations together, I've every right to wish the Gang Show a very happy 50th birthday indeed."

The Proclaimers said they were pleased that the young people had decided to include some of their songs, from Sunshine In Leith, in this year's show.

The Gang Show started with an enthusiastic group of Scouts in January 1960.

Over the years it has featured more than 3000 people.

The 50th anniversary celebrations also include a reunion for former cast members, a spring ball and a camp at Bonaly Outdoor Centre.

Publicity manager Scott Walker said: "One of the nice things about the Gang Show is it presents a very positive message about what young people today can do."