The first Edinburgh Gang Show was staged at the King’s Theatre from 14 -19 November 1960 and was a bold undertaking by the County of Edinburgh and Leith Boy Scouts Association, and one that initially attracted its share of sceptics.
However, the production made an immediate impact as an exciting new addition to the Scouting programme. Edinburgh Gang Show had truly arrived.
The 1962 production was held at the Lyceum Theatre, though the move proved short-lived but the following year, the show returned to the King’s Theatre, where it has been performed ever since.
In 1964, the show was assessed for national recognition by J. Murray Napier of Imperial Headquarters. Edinburgh was officially recognised and granted the right to wear the coveted Red Scarf, a distinction awarded only to Gang Shows that met the high standards set by Ralph Reader and from that point on, there was no stopping the Gang.
In 1967, Edinburgh became the first Gang Show in the world permitted by Ralph Reader to include girls in the cast. This pioneering partnership with the Girl Guides set a new benchmark, with both movements contributing their enthusiasm and talent to strengthen what quickly became a joint venture.
By the end of the 1960s, the Edinburgh Gang Show had firmly established itself as an annual highlight of the Scouting and Guiding calendar with hundreds of Scouts from throughout the District appearing in its shows over the years.