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| 23 Jun 2025 | |
| Written by Victoria Bastiman | |
| Events |
The sun was shining on our lunch to celebrate 30 years of the building of the Judi Dench Theatre. We were delighted to welcome back former Head of Drama, Richard Grayson, OH Staff 1990-2007, who was heavily involved in the design and implementation of the 'new' theatre. He was able to reunite with Tim Welburn, OH 1985-95, who was the lead actor on the opening night in 1995, playing the part of Albert in the production of Tom Stoppard's "Albert's Bridge".
Former Senior Mistress, Mary Chorlton, OH Staff 1987-2006 also joined us for the buffet lunch. Unfortunately, former Headmaster, John Morris (1990-2006, OH Staff 1980-2006), for whom the theatre was his first big building project during his tenure, was unable to join us but he shared with us his memories of that time in the video below. Former Head of English, Mr Neil King, OH Staff 1974-2006, also unable to attend, reminded us of Dame Judi Dench's visit to open the theatre, in the video.
The oldest alumni to attend the lunch was by far the biggest character. It's probably fair to say that when we heard retired Reverend Michael Walker, OH 1950-58 was travelling 170 miles by public transport for the lunch, we were a little concerned, given his 85 years of age. However, on meeting him, we realised that this was one of many adventures in his life. Upon starting one of his many life stories, it inevitably led to the words of '... but that's another story I shall tell you after'! We were definitely left wanting to hear more and we hope to see him at another event soon.
After lunch and a tour of the school, the guests assembled in the theatre to see performances from our current students in the Senior School, directed by Head of Drama, Sally Witts. Not only did the programme include acting scenes and monologues, but also ballet and musical performances.
Thank you very much for organising the event on Saturday. We all enjoyed ourselves very much in a relaxed atmosphere among OHs and partners from a diverse set of year groups.
The meal was just right for the occasion and the tour served to jog everybody's memories of the school - with some very interesting nuggets of information given by Vikki on the way round!!
The highlight (apart from being served wine by the Headmaster, of course) was undoubtedly the snippets of musical, drama & dance performances presented by the very talented pupils!
It was good to finally meet your team in person and also to talk with Justin over lunch. It was encouraging that he presented such a positive outlook for the school, especially considering the unwarranted financial pressure that this government has recently placed on the Private Education sector without allowing any meaningful time for discussion or preparation.
30 years Anniversary Video:
Attendees:
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