Sky Arts has commissioned two new classical music documentaries for its fall slate: The Handel Scandal and Dangerous Debussy.
The docs will be available next month on Sky Arts, streaming service NOW, and free to all UK households via Freeview.
Factory Films is making The Handel Scandal, with Lisa Fairbank directing and Julie Heathcote as EP, exploring the genesis of George Frideric Handel’s Messiah and its connection to disgraced English performer Susannah Cibber.
Dangerous Debussy, directed by Sabina Emrit Harper and executive produced by David Harewood and Bill Hobbins, hails from Section 52 Films. It explores the life of Claude Debussy through his relationships with the women who loved, supported, and inspired him. BAFTA-winning actor Adeel Akhtar brings Debussy’s letters to life, while leading Professor Barbara L. Kelly and Professor Caroline Rae provide expert insight throughout the documentary.
Phil Edgar-Jones OBE, executive director for unscripted at Sky, remarked, “These two additions to our autumn slate demonstrate Sky’s commitment to showcasing high-caliber and culturally enriching arts storytelling. We’re proud to be championing two diverse independent U.K. production companies with heartfelt programming which will be free to all audiences via the Sky Arts Freeview channel.”
