The Sydney Opera House has appointed producer Harry Prouse as its new Head of Contemporary Performance, strengthening the organisation’s artistic leadership as it looks to expand its presence in modern theatre, cabaret, dance and comedy.

Prouse steps into the role after four years in senior producing positions at the Opera House, where he helped deliver major projects including Amadeus starring Michael Sheen during the venue’s 50th anniversary celebrations, the return season of Penn & Teller, and the world premiere of the music-driven cabaret hit GATSBY at The Green Light.

Michael Sheen in Amadeus. Photo © Daniel Boud/Sydney Opera House

Established in 2017, the Contemporary Performance program brings leading Australian and international artists to the Opera House across theatre, musical theatre, circus, comedy and hybrid performance.

Prouse will oversee programming as part of the Sydney Opera House Presents team led by Director of Programming Brenna Hobson, who said that Prouse was a standout candidate in a competitive field. “His flair for programming, as well as his commercial nous and passion for developing artists and producers, make him a huge asset to the Sydney Opera House and the sector,” she said.

Harry Prouse. Portrait © Daniel Boud / Sydney Opersa House

Prouse, who has previously worked with Kay & McLean Productions, Tinderbox Productions, Music Theatre International, The LUME – Grande Experiences and Melbourne’s fortyfivedownstairs, said he was excited to help shape the next phase of contemporary programming.

“It’s an honour to shape the next chapter of our Contemporary Performance programming,” Prouse said. “I look forward to collaborating with artists, companies and commercial producers both here at home and around the world to present a program that is vibrant, compelling and, most importantly, entertaining.”

Prouse holds a Master of Arts in Arts Management from RMIT and a Bachelor of Arts from WAAPA. His appointment is effective immediately, filling the vacancy left by Ebony Bott, now Artistic Director of Brisbane Festival.

Upcoming Contemporary Performance highlights include Now You See Me Live, GATSBY at The Green Light, and Circa’s Duck Pond in the Concert Hall.