WITH rehearsals now well under way, those attending the return of the Basingstoke Gang show can expect an explosion of colour.

More than 600 stunning costumes have created for the show which will take over The Haymarket from February 8 to February 17.

The Basingstoke Gang Show is recognised as the best-selling and longest running family variety show in the area and features 67 performers aged from eight to 22 years old and all from local Cubs, Guides, Scouts and Explorers.

Producer of this year’s Gang Show, the 26th held, Kirsty Thomas said: “This year’s cast have been working hard to bring their very best to the stage in February at The Haymarket, and I couldn’t be more proud of each and every one of them.

“This year’s show offers something for everyone, music from the 1940’s to today, comedy to make you laugh out loud and dancing that you will want to join in with.”

Cast members have been honing their routines, with everyone involved supporting each other.

One cast member Freya said: “I enjoy Gang Show because you can have fun with your friends and you can do dancing and singing even if you don’t do it outside of Gang Show.”

Another cast member Chloe added: “Gang Show is family, from growing up with family in the show, and now I feel like I have my own Gang Show family.”

The Gang Show supports the Scout and Guide Association, and with 11 shows this year’s the show will be raising money for Muffin’s Dream Foundation, a charity which is dedicated to helping families with a child or young adult who has a disability or illness.

Chairman of the Gang Show Steve Edney said: “Audiences will be blown away with this year’s show. As the massive cast of 68 children and young adults sing, dance and deliver comedy sketches across 19 different numbers, the talent of our town will give the audience a feel-good experience which will match any professional variety show or panto.”

Tickets cost £19 for adults, £17 for concession and £13 for children. For more information or to book a ticket visit anvilarts. org.uk/whats-on/basingstokegang-show-2018.