Live Odyssey: Immersive British Music Experience Launching in Camden Market
East London is currently buzzing with ABBA Voyage and the forthcoming Elvis Evolution shows, but now, Camden Market gears up to host a new immersive experience: Live Odyssey. This groundbreaking event will celebrate six decades of British music history, offering a unique journey for music enthusiasts.
A Unique Immersive Music Journey
Opening this May, this captivating two-and-a-half-hour experience seamlessly blends live performances with cutting-edge hologram technology, promising an unforgettable adventure through the rich tapestry of British music.
John Lennon Exhibition: A Personal Biography
The inaugural major exhibition within Live Odyssey will be dedicated to the legendary Beatles icon, John Lennon. Entitled “an intimate and personal walk-through biography,” the exhibit will showcase stories and never-before-seen artefacts, meticulously curated by Lennon’s sister, Julia Baird.
Unveiling Lennon’s Early Life
Julia Baird, Lennon’s half-sister, will share candid and personal narratives of their unconventional upbringing and the family dynamics behind this British music icon.
Step into Lennon’s World
Visitors will have the unprecedented opportunity to “step into his world” through immersive, multi-sensory storytelling. Soundscapes, rare artefacts, projections, and iconic music will converge to bring the Beatles legend’s legacy to life in a way never before imagined.
Behind the Icon: Family Stories Revealed
Organizers have hinted that Julia Baird will reveal the complex dynamic between two strong-willed women—John’s mother and his Aunt Mimi—who vied for his custody. Ultimately, Aunt Mimi gained custody, removing John from his mother at the age of five. However, as he grew, John frequently returned to spend time with his mother and half-sisters. It was from his mother that he inherited his love for music, and he often played guitar with his childhood friend, Paul McCartney, during these visits. Julia Baird will openly discuss both the challenges and joys of their fractured family life, as well as the profound grief following the tragic loss of their mother, Julia, in a road accident—a painful legacy that deeply impacted the entire family, particularly John, as he rose to global fame with the Beatles.
Lennon’s sister stated, “I’m delighted to share the intimate story of my brother John at Live Odyssey.”
A Musical Adventure Through the Decades
Music aficionados can embark on a two-and-a-half-hour musical journey that encapsulates the evolution of British music, from the early anthems of the 1960s and 70s to the Britpop phenomenon of the 90s and today’s cutting-edge hits. Excitement will build from the entrance, styled after The Clash steps, leading into six distinct rooms. Each room will immerse guests in a different musical era, recreating the sights, sounds, and cultural moments that shaped each decade. The design encourages movement between the live music rooms and adjacent bars, allowing guests to enjoy the experience throughout. Live Odyssey culminates in a breathtaking 3D immersive voyage through space, featuring star walls and 3D visuals set to a song by Roger Taylor of Queen.
Exclusive Music Memorabilia and Hologram Performances
Live Odyssey will showcase previously unseen live footage and authentic photography from the vibrant UK music scene. Furthermore, rotating heritage items from various artists will be on display, including Bowie’s Glastonbury microphone, leads from Lennon’s ‘Imagine’ recording sessions, and original album art such as The Beatles’ “Magical Mystery Tour,” Kate Bush’s “The Whole Story,” and The Rolling Stones’ “Slow Rollers.”
The Cutting-Edge Hologram Room
A standout feature is the unique Hologram Room, a state-of-the-art space within the attraction that will immortalize iconic figures from British music history as holograms. Kicking off the launch, there will be an exclusive holographic performance by The Libertines, a highly influential 21st-century UK band known for their raw energy and captivating live performances. Partly filmed in their signature red military attire, the hologram show will recreate their classic charm while embracing futuristic technology. Exclusive behind-the-scenes footage and photography from the holographic shoot will also be presented as part of the Live Odyssey experience, providing fans with an intimate glimpse into the band’s creative process.
Celebrating Iconic Album Art and Musical Legacy
Live Odyssey is collaborating with Pop Nouveau, custodian of a premier private collection of music art globally, to curate an exhibition celebrating iconic album and single covers, alongside rarely seen artwork that has defined generations of artists. The venue will feature a dynamic collection of 3,500 original album and single cover artworks, live art installations, and exclusive prints available for purchase. A highlight will be the “Lennon Wired Exhibition,” created by renowned artist James Wilkinson. Each piece in this collection incorporates intricate segments from microphone leads, acquired from the sale of John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s Tittenhurst Park estate. This collection stands as a tribute to John Lennon’s artistic legacy and eclectic style.
“The Tapes WE Left Behind” Art Collection
The exhibition will also present ‘The Tapes WE Left Behind’ – a striking collection featuring art crafted from Master Tapes of some of the world’s most celebrated musicians, including Queen, David Bowie, John Lennon, Paul McCartney, Pink Floyd, Radiohead, Morrissey, and Duran Duran. The live bands performing are carefully selected from the industry’s finest musicians, paying tribute to revered and iconic artists while reimagining their songs in a way that honours their enduring legacy. This spectacular music show is designed to stand alone, letting the music speak for itself.
Tickets, including £25 early bird offers until March 31, are available for purchase here.