A ‘Colly’ good show

Last week the Parish Church of St Mary the Virgin, on the Causeway in Horsham, hosted the annual Collyer’s Founder’s Day and Leavers’ Recital.
By The Newsroom
Published 31st May 2013, 15:37 BST
Amy Wells and Bethan Roles on Collyer's Founder's Day. Picture by Sam TaylorAmy Wells and Bethan Roles on Collyer's Founder's Day. Picture by Sam Taylor
Amy Wells and Bethan Roles on Collyer's Founder's Day. Picture by Sam Taylor

Canon Guy Bridgewater welcomed the congregation, who enjoyed an evening of music and dramatic performance, orchestrated by Collyer’s Neil Kendall (Artistic Director), Dan Page (Technical Support) and Dominic Leitner (Musical Director).

Founders Day has been celebrated by the institution since 1532, to give thanks to Richard Collyer, who provided in his will for a free school in Horsham, his place of birth.

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Melanie Russell, Collyer’s Assistant Principal, was thrilled: “The performances were absolutely mesmerising. An extremely fitting good-bye to our leavers, and tribute to our founder, Richard Collyer”.

Dominic Leitner, subject leader for music, with the Collyers Choir. Picture by Sam TaylorDominic Leitner, subject leader for music, with the Collyers Choir. Picture by Sam Taylor
Dominic Leitner, subject leader for music, with the Collyers Choir. Picture by Sam Taylor

Parents, friends, governors, teachers and the Horsham community were treated to dramatic readings and superb performances from drama students, the Collyer’s Sinfonia, the Piano Trio, Collyer’s Choir, Wind Quartet and the Collyer’s Big Band.

Collyer’s Principal, Dr Jackie Johnston, said: “Good luck to those leaving Collyer’s this year and many thanks to Collyer’s staff and students who have once again surpassed themselves during tonight’s wonderful performances.

“They are an absolute credit to the college and Horsham. We also owe a huge debt of thanks to Canon Guy Bridgewater and all at St Mary’s for hosting this historical event.”

Pictures by Collyer’s photography student Sam Taylor.