If there are badges to award, award them immediately after the separate meeting, so you will not cut into minstrel show time. Before the show explain to the boys the program for the month ahead, and interest them in the Blue and Gold party.
Skip a formal closing this month. Close your Pack meeting with the grand finale of the minstrels. Make all announcements before the show begins. On page 16 you will find some ideas on preparing and staging your minstrel show. Here we are concerned mostly with the regular Pack meeting outline.
Pre-Opening.
During the pre-opening, boys remain in uniforms rather than wear minstrel costumes. Save the costumes as a surprise. Each Den should have a table available for exhibits developed during the month, especially homemade instruments, music scrapbooks, Cub Scout-composed music, etc.
Separate Meetings.
During this period Den leaders, with the help of others if necessary, should help the boys get ready for the minstrel show. It will not be difficult in the time allowed, because in most minstrels only end men wear blackface. Leaders should also make sure the boys know their songs, jokes, and stories. Just before opening the joint meeting, the boys should be lined up ready to begin the minstrel.
While the boys are busy reading for the minstrel, the Cubmaster meets with all parents. Since the January Pack Leaders’ meeting will probably take place before the January Pack meeting, plans will probably be well established for the Blue and Gold party in February.
The Cubmaster should explain Blue and Gold plans to parents, doing his best to build their enthusiasm for making it the high spot of the entire year. He should explain the way in which food will be handled, announce the names of those who will serve on committees, etc.
You’ll find specific helps for planning and producing your minstrel show, as follows: PROGRAMS (“Gentlemen, Be Seated”) page [16]; Homemade MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS page [17], and DEN REHEARSALS (“Den Doings”) page [19].