How it all began

St.Albans District Scouts & Guides staged their first Gang Show in 1980 and have produced an annual show ever since. There was a one off show back in the 1930's but there seems to be very little information in existence about this particular event.

The show has always taken place every February at the largest theatre in the town - the Alban Arena (formerly the City Hall). The Show plays to full houses throughout the week and is one of the very few productions staged at the Alban Arena which always sells out.

A local Scouter called Mark Barratt produced the first three shows ably assisted by a team of local Scouters, Guiders and other helpers. He then handed over the production and direction to his assistant Terry Cavender. Terry took the show to great new heights establishing it as one of the finest in the country.

In 1990 Ian Woods took over as producer having been in the show and helped to stage it since 1980. Ian was ably assisted by Avril Drew who brought new ideas and exciting new choreography to the show. Avril's husband Roger was also roped in - he is currently the show's musical director and their two sons were also both in the show when they were Scouts. James & Nick are now both professional musicians who continue to help each year!

In September 2002 David Barker took over as producer having been involved with the show since 1982 both as a cast member and then joining the production team. Thankfully, Avril Drew continues to supply her expertise as Director!

The show has been overseen by three different chairmen Gerald Milstead, Ian Broxton (who served for 25 years) and Phil Wells who took over as chairman in 2004.

Since 1980 literally thousands of young people have been given the opportunity to perform in the St.Albans Scout & Guide Gang Show. The Show was officially recognised in the late eighties when it was awarded the Gang Show emblem which they now proudly wear on the back of their red scarf.