On Saturday 18th March 2017, SHINDIGS returned to Shoeburyness High School as over 100 young people took to the stage. 

Over 100 Scouts and Guides from the Southend, Castle Point and Crouch Valley districts came together at Shoeburyness High School on Saturday 18^th March to put on a ‘show in a day’. Known as SHINDIGS, the show is an action packed day whereby Scouts and Guides can get an introduction to singing, dancing and acting before performing live to an audience at the end of the day.

With songs and dances learnt throughout the day the cast put on a fantastic evening performance to over 200 audience members with everyone involved having a great time. The programme which included items such as Dance Mania, Mamma Mia, a Night at the Cinema and the Final Celebration it was a real variety performance. With the majority of the cast having never performed on stage before, the prospect of having to put on a full show would have been daunting. However with their best foot forward and only 9 hours to practice the cast sang their hearts out and wowed an appreciate audience.

Tim Browne, Show Manager of Southend Gang Show spoke about the event, saying: “SHINDIGS 2017 was a fantastic occasion for both the young people and adult volunteers who gave it their all. The young people have got so much from today including the chance to learn new skills, build their confidence and make new friends. We can’t wait to see them all auditioning for the Southend Gang Show in September.”

The cast where supported throughout the day by over 50 adult volunteers who took bookings, arranged props, set the stage with lights and music and made sure everyone was having a great time.

Josh Hales, a member of SHINDIGS cast described his day, saying: “I’ve had a brilliant day at SHINDIGS 2017. It was so much fun performing in front of a live audience; it was also great to meet up with old friends from previous shows as well as meeting new people. I now can’t wait for It’s a Date 2018!”