William Henry Ralph Reader CBE (1903 - 1982)

Born 25 May 1903 in Crewkerne, Somerset, England

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Biography

Early career

In 1920 he moved to the United States of America, working in various menial jobs, while acting in and directing off-Broadway shows. At 21 he choreographed his first Broadway show and the New York Times wrote: "Watch Ralph Reader". Returning to England, he produced and choreographed West End productions, notably variety performances at Drury Lane and at the Hippodrome.

In 1932, still in Scouting, he anonymously staged his first all-Scout variety show at the Scala Theatre, London. The Gang's All Here featured 150 Boy Scouts largely from London's East End, performing sketches, songs and dance numbers. The three performances were well received by public and critics. . . . . more . . Wikipedia®

. . . The show was not a sell-out but enough was raised to fund the swimming pool and the show was well received. Baden-Powell, the founder of scouting, persuaded Reader to produce another show in 1933. . . . This was The Gang Comes Back and ran for a week.

Songs written . . Wikipedia®

Sources

• . . Wikipedia®