Jacksons Lane has announced that Artistic Director and joint CEO Adrian (Ade) Berry will step down in January 2026, marking the end of an extraordinary 18-year tenure.
Berry’s leadership has transformed Jacksons Lane into the UK’s most prolific venue for contemporary circus. His work has supported both UK and international artists, forging strong partnerships with organisations such as the Finnish Institute in the UK and Ireland, Circusstad in Holland, and Montréal Complètement Cirque.
Adrian Porter and Beth Chaudhary, Chairs of Jacksons Lane past and present, said:
“For almost 2 decades Ade has played a pivotal role in elevating Jacksons Lane to be the UK’s most prolific circus performing arts venue… We owe him huge thanks.”
Berry’s legacy includes securing Jacksons Lane’s NPO status and leading the venue through a £4.8 million redevelopment during the pandemic. Completed in 2022, the transformation created a modern, accessible arts centre within a Grade II listed building.
Reflecting on his time at Jacksons Lane, Berry said:
“It has been an honour and privilege to be the Artistic Director of Jacksons Lane over the last 18 years… I am excited to see where Jacksons Lane goes next, as well as my own journey into new discoveries and creativity.”
Under Berry’s direction, Jacksons Lane hosted a decade of London International Mime Festival events, supported over 80 productions at the Edinburgh Fringe, and collaborated with the National Theatre, Stratford Circus, and others. His own production, From Ibiza to the Norfolk Broads, toured to 90 cities between 2016–18.
Berry will remain in post until January 2026, with recruitment for his successor beginning shortly. He leaves behind a thriving venue that continues to break records, including its most successful show to date, Christmas Comes to Moominvalley, which returns this year.
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