By Isle of Wight Observer
More than 100 excited Guides and Rangers from the Island headed to London’s OVO Arena, Wembley, for Girlguiding’s Big Gig, joining over 21,000 members aged 10–18 and their leaders for a high‑energy afternoon of live music. The girls danced and sang along to chart‑toppers, JLS and Scouting for Girls, West End star, Kerry Ellis, The Wanted 2.0, Carla Monroe, and country‑pop trio, Midnight in Vegas.
Ahead of her performance, Kerry Ellis, the first British actress to play Elphaba in Wicked in the West End and on Broadway, said returning to Girlguiding felt “full circle” after her own days as a Brownie. She promised “a bit of Wicked” in her set, and said she couldn’t wait to hear the girls sing back.
The show was hosted by broadcaster and Girlguiding ambassador, Angellica Bell, alongside Radio 1 presenter, Charlie Hedges. Angellica said Big Gig offers girls an affordable, unforgettable experience in a safe space, adding that live music “should be accessible to all”.
After a six‑year wait, excitement for Big Gig’s return was so high that tickets sold out in a record‑breaking 90 minutes. Girlguiding’s youth panel, Pioneer, helped select the line‑up to ensure a mix of genres and something for everyone.
Big Gig is one of many adventures Girlguiding offers, from rock climbing and camping under the stars to seeing major acts on stage at Wembley. For Island Guides and Rangers, it was a day they will remember for a long time.
Mal Butler