CHESTER Scouts are inviting all fans of legendary rockers Queen to their annual Gang Show this February half term.

Young leaders Amy Steaton and Will Taylor have put together a clever reworking of the Shakespeare tale Romeo and Juliet, featuring many of the band’s hits.

Amy said: “Queen are such an iconic band, and there’s been an amazing buzz when we’ve been rehearsing the songs.

“I’m so proud of the young people involved. They’ve been amazingly dedicated at the rehearsals, and have loved the empowerment message we’ve woven into the story. We can’t wait to perform it in front of people!"

And the rest of the show, with its unique mix of music old and new, contemporary dance and many comic moments looks set to thrill its audience.

Amy added: "Our 70 Scouts are brilliant, and l honestly believe it’s going to be one of the best shows we’ve ever put on."

Behind the scenes, a huge number of volunteers, young and old, have also been involved to make it happen.

This has included creation of over 400 costumes, lighting and sound design, set building, script writing, sourcing of props, catering, fundraising and business matters, over a year-long period.

Amy said: "The amount of effort and time people give to the show is astonishing. I’m so proud of the entire team, who all do it to give the Gang the best experience possible."

Scouting in Chester is currently thriving, as fellow director Will explained: "We’re really proud of how Scouting, and events like Gang Show, have helped thousands of local youngsters to have fun, make friends, and prepare them with skills for life.”

Collette McManus is one such former Scout Gang member, who is currently studying acting at the University of Central Lancashire in Preston.

She said: “There’s is no way I’d be here now, taking a subject I love, without the confidence and skills I learnt at Gang Show.

"And even though I’m away from home, I’ll always have my Gang Show family back in Chester!”

The show is taking place between Tuesday, February 19 and Saturday, February 23, at The Vanbrugh Theatre, The King’s School.

Tickets are available by calling 07544 144445.

Amy added: "We’d really love to show the wider public in Chester, not just those involved in Scouting, what our young people can achieve. People should definitely come and watch Gang Show, because I think they’ll be amazed."