The Five Originals - Russell Lees

The Five Originals

Russell Lees

Go on Russ, tell us how old you are!
My wife says my mental age is about 10... In truth I'm no spring chicken, but I'm still young at heart!

What was your starring role in the 1983 Show?
No single person is a 'star' in Gang Show - they say every single member of the Gang is a star!

What does Gang Show mean to you?
To start with, lots of hard work! Then as the Show gels, a tremendous sense of fun and achievement culminating in the week of the Show, which brings for everyone who takes part an experience of a lifetime. The 'buzz' of being in the spotlight in front of an audience is very special.

So, why do you keep coming back for more?
The camaraderie of being part of the "Gang"!

Give us a few words about 20 years of Gang Show in Inverness.
It's been a privilege to have been in all of the Gang Shows since 1983. Each has been different, but all have been enormous fun.

What is your starring role in the 2003 Show?
Just taking part makes every Gang member a star.

What is your 'one-word' summary of everything Gang Show?
Simply the best! [Uhh, that's three words, Russ! - Ed]

What about the 6-month rehearsal schedule?
Although lots of hard work, rehearsals are lots of fun as well. They also give the Gang a chance to understand how much we depend on the people who don't have a chance to be "in the limelight". The production team, wardrobe, musical team, make-up, dressers, security, front of house, etc.

What have you personally enjoyed about the last 20 years?
I've enjoyed every item I've taken part in, in all the Shows, but especially the sketches. They do say I also enjoy dressing up as women, but I couldn't possibly comment myself! Maralyn Munroe, Cher, Olivia Newton-John, a lollypop woman, one of the ABBA girls, to name but a few! Mmm... [See below! - Ed]

Perhaps what I've enjoyed the best was getting the chance to play Michael Flatley in the 'Shiverdance item (1997), although the misprint Michael Flathead was probably more appropriate!

See Russell 'not' enjoying himself here (third from left) and also here (on the right)!

The views and opinions expressed by The Five Originals are not necessarily those of the Scout Association, and are definitely not those of Inverness Area Gang Show!