Ralph Reader CBE - The founder of the first Gang Show

Our History

Strzelecki Showtime sits within a long tradition of Scout performing arts that began with the first Gang Show, created in London in 1932 by Ralph Reader CBE at the request of Lord Baden-Powell, founder of the Scout Movement. The idea of Scouts performing on stage quickly spread around the world, with Australia’s first Gang Show in Brisbane in 1952, followed by Melbourne Gang Show in 1953.

Strzelecki Showtime began in 1969, sparked by a visit to see the Melbourne Gang Show. Inspired by the energy and community spirit of Scout performing arts, founder Ray Beebe and local Scouts in the Latrobe Valley took the idea home to Morwell and staged a one-off production that same year with help from Melbourne Gang Show performers.

What started as a single collaborative event quickly grew into something much bigger. By 1970, Strzelecki Showtime was running independently, building its own identity while still drawing on support from established Scout theatre traditions. Early productions followed the classic revue-style format of Gang Shows, blending sketches, music, and ensemble performance.

Over time, the show evolved into something unique. Today, Strzelecki Showtime is an annual 100% original musical production, written and created by local cast and crew. It has grown into a long-standing community tradition in the Latrobe Valley, showcasing generations of young performers, leaders, and volunteers.

Ray Beebe OAM - Strzelecki Showtime founder