John Berry CBE has announced the launch of Scenario Two, a new theatre venture focused on creating theatrical productions for London, the wider UK and internationally. The company is based on Berry’s critically acclaimed English National Opera (ENO) model of bringing together the very best talent from the world of opera and musical theatre with top performers and creatives from other industries such as film, television and theatre.
Berry is best known for his work as artistic director of the ENO between 2005-15, where his award-winning programming included engaging Terry Gilliam to direct The Damnation of Faust and Benvenuto Cellini, Mike Leigh to direct The Pirates of Penzance, and the creation of a new commercial musicals model which began with a sell-out production of Sweeney Todd, starring Emma Thompson and Bryn Terfel.
He commented: “The theatrical landscape in London is thrilling at the moment with many producers delivering breathtaking work. This new direction is an exciting personal challenge for me and I’m enjoying the balance of commercial theatre and opera in my life.”
Co-founder of the venture is BAFTA-award-winning producer Anthony Lilley OBE, a former trustee of the ENO. He has worked with Ai Wei Wei, The Space, Northern Ballet and Donmar Warehouse, among others. Joining as producing director is Terri-Jayne Griffin, one of the outstanding producers of her generation, who worked closely with Berry at the ENO.
The company’s first production will be The Light in the Piazza, starring world-renowned soprano Renée Fleming and taking place at London’s Royal Festival Hall in June and July.
For more information visit the Scenario Two website.
Image
John Berry at Scenario Two (Christina Haldane).