MORE than 300 Scouts, Cubs, Guides and their leaders in Oxfordshire are in the final stages of rehearsal for the annual Gang Show.

The Gang Show has been running for more than 50 years and will this year see about 180 performers taking to the stage at the New Theatre, in George Street.

There, budding performers will be acting, singing, and dancing their way through the variety show.

They are also supported by more than 100 backstage staff dealing with costumes, make-up and lighting.

Director Kim Griffiths said this year's production would have more of a focus on acting.

She said: "We are trying to bring back some of the older material and bring the balance back.

"This year celebrates 100 years of Scouting so we are doing a tribute to that in the show.

"Of the items this year, there are probably about six which are pure song and dance and other items which involve other things."

It will be Mrs Griffiths' first time directing the show and she said: "I think we have got some amazing items and the balance is really, really good.

"When people come along, I can truly say that everyone will enjoy some part of the show.

"There's so much diversity and it will appeal to so many people."

There are two "gangs" - junior, youngsters aged eight to 12, and senior.

There is no upper age limit - the oldest person taking part this year is in her 70s.

For about 80 children, it will be their first Gang Show and their first opportunity to perform on a professional stage - the theatre has seating for 1,800.

Mrs Griffiths said: "Every year we try to put in something that's a bit different and I'm a tap dancer so I wanted to put something in that would knock the audiences' socks off.

"Thirteen of us are doing a soft and tap shoe Irish style Riverdance routine which has gone really well."

She added: "It's extremely hard work and needs a lot of stamina."

Among the pieces will be Spooks, Fairytales, Beauty Parlour and the Riverdance number.

The show will be performed between Monday, March 12, and Saturday, March 17, with evening performances starting at 7.15pm and a Saturday matinee at 2pm.

Tickets start at £5.50 up to £9.50 and can be bought from the New Theatre or online from the show's website www.oxfordgangshow.org.uk