Achievements of Odyssey Theatre celebrated at the prestigious National Lottery Awards

Local Lottery-funded drama project, Odyssey Theatre, has been recognised as one of the UK's best Arts projects at The National Lottery Awards 2009 in London.

Staff and volunteers from Odyssey Theatre, Hijinx Theatre's mixed ability group, mingled with celebrity guests at the star-studded awards show, broadcast live on BBC 1 on Saturday 5 September. Famous names attending included hosts Myleene Klass and Nick Knowles, actress Fay Ripley, model and presenter Lisa Snowdon, fellow Strictly Come Dancing contestant and broadcaster John Sergeant, 'King of the Jungle ' Christopher Biggins, singer David Gray, Noisettes and 15-year old diving sensation Tom Daley.

Odyssey Theatre received an incredible show of public support throughout all stages of the competition to become a runner-up in the Best Arts Project category.

Gaynor Lougher from Odyssey Theatre, says: "We are absolutely delighted to have been named as a runner-up in The National Lottery Awards. We beat hundreds of other projects from all over the UK to get to this stage and it has been the most tremendous experience. We have been overwhelmed by the support we have received from the public.

"Our Lottery funding has allowed us to create an inclusive project that aims to offer opportunities to all and the Awards have been a fantastic chance for us to thank everyone who is involved in our project and help make it a success."

National Lottery Awards presenter, broadcaster John Sergeant, says: "It has been an honour to meet all the fantastic staff and volunteers who run this brilliant project and to have the chance to find out more about it. It really is a wonderful example of how Lottery funding has made a real difference to the local community and beyond. I wish them all the very best for the future in their good work, which is having such a positive impact on so many people."

About the project:
Hijinx Theatre's mixed ability group Odyssey Theatre runs weekly drama workshops and stages annual performances at the Wales Millennium Centre. The inclusive group brings together avid drama-lovers of all abilities, who work with music students from the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, and pupils from a special school. Lottery grants fund workshop and production costs, including staff, materials and venue hire.