Odyssey

It is very difficult to put into words just how exciting Odyssey will be and how thrilled we are that Windlesham is hosting this event, but I am absolutely convinced that anyone who attends the show on July 3rd will remember it forever. Not just because of its sheer scale but for the uplifting experience of seeing so many children, having such fun, performing live on a rock concert stage in front of thousands of people. We feel honoured that Odyssey will be opened by HRH Princess Michael of Kent and will conclude with a concert by the Bootleg Beatles.

Anthony Hutchings, Windlesham’s Director of Music is not only an inspirational teacher, he is a genius and more than lives up to his reputation of being a totally unique Director of Music.

Elements in July 2007 was quite the most incredible Prep School event I have ever attended. As the new Headmaster elect I was genuinely shocked by the scale of the show and the magnitude of what was being achieved. Not only was it wonderful to see so many young children performing live on an open rock stage but the sense of awe on the faces of the audience was very special. I recall standing next to a set of parents who said they were amazed by everything, the lasers, the Vulcan bomber display, the parachutists, the fireworks and the lighting but, most of all, the children.

It came as no surprise to me that Anthony Hutchings would want to do another show and I did not need to be told that he wanted it to be even more ambitious than Elements. There is nothing better than breaking new barriers, especially when it involves children and when the enjoyment and pleasure derived is in aid of such a good cause.

Odyssey is bound to bring immense pleasure to thousands of young children; it will make all their respective family and friends feel very proud. It is also bound to draw attention to the wonderful work that SPARKS does in supporting medical research into keeping children healthy.

What is so marvellous is that we can all play a part in making a difference, simply by being there, by buying tickets for Odyssey.

Whilst Anthony Hutchings is the inspiration behind this musical extravaganza, Jane Denman is the incredible driving force; her enthusiasm and drive is infectious. They each have the unanimous backing from us all at Windlesham.

Rachel and I have every faith in this wonderful venture and urge you to support it in whatever way you can. It is going to be something very special, something not to be missed; something very memorable indeed.

Richard Foster
Headmaster
Windlesham House School