Thursday and Friday of last week saw a rare opportunity for some of Tenby's more 'mature' citizens to relive their youth, and wallow in nostalgia, when 'Thirty Years On,' a reunion Gang Show was staged at the De Valence Pavilion. But it was not just a chance for the 30 and 40 somethings of the town to get on stage and 'Ride Along on the Crest of a Wave.' Oh no, it was much more than that, because it gave the Rainbows, Cubs, Brownies, Guides and Leaders of the 21st century the chance to show that they belong to a vibrant movement that is very much alive. Anything their Mums and Dads can do, they can do too. From the moment the uniformed children and leaders marched on to the stage at the opening, to the very special moment at the end they were joined by everyone who had taken part, to sing the spine-tingling Scout Hymn, the audience were kept spellbound by the sheer talent and variety on show. The Rainbows charmed everyone with their 'We Can Sing a Rainbow,' and the Brownies' exuberant rendition of favourites from Mary Poppins set feet a-tapping throughout the hall. The Cubs gave 'My Old Man's a Dustman,' the treatment Lonnie Donegan would have been proud of, and the Guides brought the house down with their lively version of 'Annie.' Special mention must be made of Guides Lucy Morris, Hannah Gray and Lily Whitehurst for some memorable solo singing. The young people didn't have it all their own way, though, and some good friends of the movement lent their talents to make the evening extra special. Paul Morris, surrounded by Rainbows, Brownies and Cubs, was a wonderful 'Grandad,' particularly as he took over the spot at extremely short notice. Very special friend, Laurie Dale, accompanied by some tuneful Cubs, took us to a battlefield with 'Two Little Boys,' and ex-Scouters Des and Shirley Wickland charmed the audience and proved that they do 'Remember it Well.' The first half ended with a rousing performance of the old 'South Pacific' classic, 'There is Nothing Like a Dame,' and if some of the guys had a little more around the girth, and a little less hair on their heads, they were still able to flirt with the glamorous Catrin Griffiths, though hopefully, her husband was on hand to deal with all the raised blood pressure! The oldest member on stage at this point was 80! A mere stripling! The second half began with guest artistes, Stage Two, giving a very polished performance of songs from 'Oliver,' and, once again, we are grateful to them for so readily offering their services. One of the highlights of the second half saw the leaders and friends with their version of 'Easter Parade.' It was opened with a beautiful duet from John and Judy Morgan, 'Try to Remember', leading into a medley of songs, culminating in the singing of 'We'll Keep a Welcome in the Hillsides' as 90-year-old ex Brown Owl, Mrs. Gertie Dinsdale, resplendent in the Welsh flag, made her way to the front of the stage. Truly a memorable moment in a show of so many. A stunning feature of this item was the millinery! Mrs. Diana Lewis had used her magic touch yet again, and created some amazing hats of tulle and flowers. Look out for them at any summer weddings you may attend! We even had special guests. On both evenings, taking time out from his own wedding preparations, Prince Charles popped in to wish us well, and at least one Brownie is convinced that he was the genuine article. On Friday, we were privileged to be joined by Charles Dale, who joined very proud father, Laurie, in a reprise of 'Me and My Shadow', first performed many years ago. It is good to know that one of Tenby's famous sons is as happy on the stage of the De Valence as in the 'Street.' But why did all these people come together? Why did world famous conductor, Grant Llewellyn, and chairman of the Wales Tourist Board, Philip Evans, feel the need to write wonderful letters of encouragement to be read at the show. Why did so many ex-members of the movement send raffle prizes, cheques and good wishes for the new Scout and Guide Appeal? Because of one lady, who made it all happen, Akela, Mrs. Pauline Allen. She is the 'truly amazing phenomenon.' Without her, it would not have happened. Akela is the wrong side of 70, but her enthusiasm and energy over the last months infected us all. When every person on the stage stood absolutely still for the 'Scout Hymn,' they did it for her. If ever anyone deserved to be honoured nationally, it is her, and if there is any justice in the world, it will happen. There are many others to thank: Mrs. Jan Evans, for being the best 'Gofor' in the business; Mrs. Julia Rees, for her technical skills; Mr. Tom Osborne, for dusting down his drum-sticks for one last time; Mr. Main, for keeping us swinging with his saxophone; Mrs. Joan Osborne, for taking on the enormous task of raising sponsorship and gathering such wonderful raffle prizes; and presentations were made to them all. Mr. Colin Jones, chairman of the hall trustees, paid tribute to Mr. Laurie Dale for all that he had done for the movement over so many years, and presented him with a token of our appreciation. Finally, after presenting Akela, with what can only be a token after such an effort, Colin was able to announce that over £5,000 had been raised for the Hall Fund. We can only hope that authorities will see fit to allow it to be built as soon as possible. It would be such a shame to see all that wonderful spirit die. The children of Tenby did us proud last week. We must not let them down. CDs with over 100 photographs of the show can be obtained for £5 by ringing 01834 843625.
Nicole Evans