AN AMATEUR show in Basingstoke which told a story of closed theatres just weeks before the Covid lockdown has been recognised with a national award.

The Basingstoke Gang Show has been awarded a National Operatic and Dramatic Association (NODO) Award for Best Compilation Show for its 2020 show, put on at The Haymarket four weeks before the country was instructed to lockdown because of the Covid pandemic.

The show, which was established in 1980, has involved more than 2,000 young people in Scouting and Guiding during the past 43 years, giving them a chance to experience being part of a large theatre production.

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Chris Horton, a NODA representative for north Hampshire and Berkshire, said she “vividly remembers” watching the 2020 Basingstoke show because of its opening number which dramatised a life where music was banned and theatres were closed.

“Little did we know just four weeks later we would enter a national lockdown,” she said.

Chris presented the award to representatives from the Basingstoke Gang Show at a special event held at the council offices, attended by the mayor and more than 50 current and past members, volunteers and parents of the show.

Basingstoke Gang Show chairman Steve Edney said: “Tonight is a joyful celebration where we come together to honour our heritage, acknowledge the positive impact in our community and have recognition of the talent within our community.

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“Basingstoke Gang Show is recognised as the best compilation (variety) show in the South of England, with Kirsty Thomas as an award-winning producer and an outstanding cast of almost 70 eight to 20 year olds.”

The Mayor of Basingstoke and Deane, Cllr Paul Miller, also shared his memories of the Gang Show after which those in attendance enjoyed cake and refreshments while looking at the Basingstoke Gang Show archive, with photos, programmes and memorabilia from its history.

Basingstoke Gang Show has performed to more than 80,000 audience members since 1980.

Tickets are now on sale for its 28th show in February 2023 anvilarts.org.uk/whats-on/event/basingstoke-gang-show.