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Entertainment
2025
Frazzled Cafe: Monday's 7:45-8:45pm
In partnership with the Harpenden Trust we are supporting local residents by providing confidential and non-judgmental peer support meetings via Frazzled Cafe trained Facilitators, where people who are feeling overwhelmed by the stresses of life can talk openly, connect and feel heard. Speaking is optional, you are very welcome to just listen.
If you are a local group wanting to use our facilities please do get in touch by emailing emcfunctions@everyoneactive.com and we would be delighted to help!
The Eric Morecambe Centre
Rothamstead Park
Harpenden
Herts
AL5 2FR
EVENT BOOKINGS VIA: https://everyonetheatres.com/theatres/the-eric-morecambe-centre/
Longest running Gang Show returns for 76th Show in 2026 with new Show Director
The hotly anticipated Harpenden & Wheathampstead Gang Show is returning to the Eric Morecambe Centre in Harpenden from the 13th to 17th of January 2026.
Almost ready to take to the stage for their record 76th show, 150 local beavers, cubs, scouts, and explorers have been rehearsing since September for the upcoming performance. And this year is a special year, as the show is under new direction from Gang Show alumni Becca Leigh.
Harpenden & Wheathampstead Gang Show is a hugely popular event in the scouting and local community calendar. Through music, dance, sketches and singing, this variety show brings smiles and laughter to a sell-out audience of all ages. With limited tickets left, you’ll have to be quick to bag yours before the show in January.
As with every year, the songs and themes in the show are a closely guarded secret known by only the cast and creative team. There is, however, added excitement for the 2026 show with the debut of new Show Director, Becca Leigh, and Graham Thomson as the new Musical Director.
This comes after Ewan Murray directed his final show in 2025, after a tremendous 37-year involvement with the show.
From being in the show herself and directing choreography in recent years, Becca Leigh is stepping into the role of Show Director with a refreshed vision for the show.
When speaking about Harpenden & Wheathampstead Gang Show, Becca Leigh said: ‘For me, Gang Show is special because of the people and energy that is put into the show. We have a huge team of volunteers off stage, as well as a cast of 150 young people on stage. Everyone’s energy and commitment to the show is what makes me proud to be taking on the role of Show Director this year. Gang Show is always the greatest week of the year for me, and I look forward to showing everyone our 76th show in 2026. You’re in for a treat.’
A leading member of the band for 28 years, Graham Thomson is taking on the role of Musical Director this year. He has said, ‘Taking over from Ewan will be big shoes to fill, but after my 28-year apprenticeship, I feel ready to take on the challenge. I’m looking forward to the show in January and for getting the kids to sing even more harmonies this year!’
Over the years, the Harpenden & Wheathampstead Gang Show has involved more than 4000 young people. But it is not just those on stage that get the show ready for show week. There are over 100 adult volunteers including Scout Leaders, parents, and current and past Scouts behind the scenes. From choreography to set design, sound to wardrobe, the work of the volunteers is essential in ensuring that the production runs smoothly.
Alongside voluntary initiatives, Harpenden & Wheathampstead Gang Show raises considerable funds for the Hertfordshire Scouting District. This funding allows the district to continue providing unique experiences for hundreds of young people involved in scouting. Also, £1,000 is donated yearly to a local charity, nominated by one of the Gang, who has a personal connection to the charity. This year, the cast and crew are proud to be supporting Herts Young Carers.
Rehearsals have been underway since September this year and after the success of a recent performance at Harpenden Christmas Carnival, the cast are excited to be getting nearer to curtain up.
So, what are you wating for? Heartwarming sing-along numbers, comedy sketches and a treat for the new year await. Get your tickets for the 76th Harpenden & Wheathampstead Gang Show in 2026 now: https://everyonetheatres.com/whats-on/harpenden-and-wheathampstead-district-gang-show-2026/
Two Of The UK’s Most Iconic Bands Will Be Brought To Life In One Power-Packed Show At The Eric Morecambe Centre!
"From Gold To Rio - The Greatest Hits Of Spandau Ballet And Duran Duran"
The Eric Morecambe Centre, Harpenden
Friday, 6th February 2026
Show Starts At 7.30pm
“From Gold to Rio” will take you on a nostalgic journey back to the New Romantic era which ruled the charts for over a decade. For the very first time the music from two of the UK’s most iconic bands will be celebrated in one power-packed show.
With over 20 top 10 hits, the show will feature 2 hours of non-stop classics, including Gold, Rio, True, The Reflex, Through the Barricades, Save A Prayer, Lifeline, Girls on Film, to name a few - guaranteed to leave the audience shouting for more! Performed by a full 8-piece live band with over 30 years professional experience, this show features excellent vocals, tight harmonies, a powerhouse rhythm section, and an infectious sense of fun. Chris Clark, who portrays Simon le Bon, has been a professional musician for nearly 20 years. Bearing a striking likeness to Simon he is also a fabulous “sound-alike”.
Lee James is widely recognised as the most authentic performer to Tony Hadley, playing across the UK and Europe for over 10 years. Lee has performed with Tony on various occasions, including BBC’s The One Show and is endorsed by Gary Kemp and Tony himself. Martin Kemp when seeing a picture of Lee on Facebook commented “you got it dude!” High praise indeed!!
So, if you’re a Duranie, a Spandie, a Wild Boy or a Soul Boy, then this is something you don’t want to miss!
Standard Ticket: £28.00.
A Nationally Acclaimed Stage Play Which Is Heart-Warming, Heart-Breaking And Hilarious Is Coming To The Eric Morecambe Centre!
"Living The Life Of Riley"
Sunday, 8th February 2026, at 7.30pm
Ages 12+
This play is about the dynamics of an ordinary family trying to cope with everyday life, including a diagnosis of autism for their youngest son. This could only have been written by someone with first-hand experience! Which of course it was because author Alison Stanley's own son Jay is autistic. Alison began to jot down her own thoughts and feelings, as well as the experiences of other families who were travelling the same road and dealing with similar issues. Some stories were upsetting, but some were very funny, and every family Alison met shared a common bond.
What was once a book of notes has now turned into a story, and these collective memories have eventually made their way to the stage.
In the 2026 tour, Alison’s son, Jay, will be making his acting debut as Colin, and we are delighted to welcome CHERYL FERGISON (Eastenders), who will be playing Colin’s mum.
KATIE PRICE is also featured in an “on-screen” role. Katie, of course, has a wealth of experience dealing with the impact on a family of an autism diagnosis.
It’s raw, it’s real, it’s raucous!!
It’s Heartwarming and Heartbreaking and Hilarious!
WHAT OUR AUDIENCE SAY:
** The trials and tribulations of family life with serious issues and serious laughter, a fabulous cast and amazing show. **
** I laughed and cried in equal measure. Highly recommended. **
** A rollercoaster of emotions, love, laughter but tissues to the ready, this is a must-see show.**
**A brilliant cast, an amazing concept and brilliantly acted.**
A nationally acclaimed stage play which is heart-warming, heart-breaking and hilarious.
Standard Ticket: £29.50.
Box Office: 01582 767525.