Issue 2
Official newspaper of the Essex International Jamboree
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Opening goes with a bang Thousands of people get together for the first time to mark the start of the fun by Emma Parker EXCITEMENT was in the air as the first Sub Camps Pygmy Hippo and Red Panda arrived in the Market Square, and the fantastic Jamboree Band, Reef Knot, played various songs old and new to an already buzzing crowd. The Orange Coats, the show’s warm up entertainers and presenters, were also energetically entertaining the arriving crowds making sure they were ready for the start of the evening’s fun. When all of the Sub Camps had finally arrived the formal part of the ceremony began with the welcome song, Together we will see. Essex International Jamboree flags entered from all of the corners of the Market Square in an eruption of colour and excitement. The cast ran through the arena and up on to the stage to finish the song with a stirring dance routine, that was enjoyed by everyone in the bustling arena. The central focus of the Jamboree was
explained. In a dramatic representation the cast dressed as industrialists in white boiler suits. They were followed by other cast members dressed as endangered animals arrived on the stage. The colourful lights showed off the performance and made it an even more spectacular event. Participants were given an insight into the themes that the event is focussing on - the world is being destroyed by the human race and someone has to stand up and change it. Together we have a responsibility to make a difference. The Sub Camp names were announced as some of the planet’s animals facing extinction, with the banners of each Sub Camp entering from the back of the arena, followed by the Sub Camp badges. Each Sub Camp cheered excitedly at the announcement of their names, and the energy in the arena itself was pulsating. The flags of countries represented at the Jamboree entered through the arena rippling in the breeze and each country
was announced in turn. As the flags arrived on the stage the crowd again joined together in celebrating the international friendships that have already begun to form. The presenters arrived on stage and welcomed the Jamboree Chief and Jamboree Deputy to officially open the event. The excitement was really building as the 10,000-strong audience started the countdown to the official opening and the raising of the Jamboree flag. With a deafening cheer six silver jets burst into the air and confetti shot across the stage as this year’s Jamboree song began. With the flag flying to the right of the stage, it will remain there until the closing ceremony on Friday. The entire crowd celebrated into the night with music playing in the main arena. It was clear that everyone was truly ready to enjoy the week ahead.