Girlguiding members from across Stone and surrounding villages are preparing to raise the curtain on a spectacular milestone event: the 50th year of A Handful of Songs, the much-loved biannual show that has been delighting audiences since 1975.
Our journey began one winter’s night at 1st Barlaston Guides, when Maureen Recine, then Guide Captain, and her Guides decided to put on a show for the local senior citizens. That first performance took place from 11th to 13th January 1975 in Barlaston Parish Rooms, with a marquee in the car park serving as a makeshift changing room and a covered walkway leading into the venue. Despite the freezing temperatures, the girls’ enthusiasm shone through—and A Handful of Songs was born.
Since then, the show has grown into a vibrant celebration of music, dance, and comedy, involving Brownies, Guides, Rangers and Young Leaders from across the local area. Held every two years, it has become a cherished tradition in the Girlguiding calendar.
The 2026 show will take place at the Rep Theatre in Stoke-on-Trent from Tuesday 31st March to Saturday 4th April 2026, promising a dazzling showcase of talent and teamwork. It is our hope that as many previous cast members as possible will put the date in the diary and join us for a performance. We will be featuring items from all the decades so lots of memories to be relived.
The show continues to be produced by Maureen, whose dedication and passion have guided A Handful of Songs from its humble beginnings to its 50th spectacular performance.
“This show is more than just a performance,” says Maureen. “It’s a celebration of friendship, teamwork, and the incredible creativity of our Girlguiding members. We’re so proud to be marking 50 years of A Handful of Songs, and we can’t wait to welcome a new generation of performers to the stage.”
Tickets are now live and prices have remained the same as our 2024 show at just £12.50 for adults and £10.50 for children and concessions across all performances.
Please book your tickets to see this special anniversary show through this link: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/girlguiding-stone-outward-division/a-handful-of-songs-2026/e-mjxlpx
Follow us on Facebook (A Handful of Songs) for updates and behind-the-scenes sneak peeks as we count down to this golden celebration!
