Nero: The Man Behind The Myth was one of the British Museum’s annual blockbuster exhibitions for 2021. Drawing on the latest research this exhibition questions the traditional narrative, established almost 2000 years ago, of the ruthless tyrant and eccentric performer. Visitors are invited to explore the story of a different Nero, a populist leader at a time of great change in Roman society.

Working with the curators, we used Nero’s persona as a performer as an analogy in our design. Through the display of some 200 spectacular objects, we have created a series of theatre-esque sets that evoke a sense of tragedy and drama using subtle theatrical techniques. The narrative journey that unfolds within a framework of ‘centre stage’ and ‘back stage’, organised around two linear ‘spines’ formed of 6m theatrical flattage wrapped with gauze material. Using this sense of place and scale, poignant 1:1 moments are punctuated by dynamic, large-scale theatrical experiences.

Accessibility is fundamental to the design; with generous circulation space, and a clear hierarchy for labels and information we have aimed to create spaces that transition seamlessly for all visitors. The objects are displayed with generous space and present the visitor with a unique opportunity to get close to them.  Nero was longlisted for Exhibition of the Year in the Dezeen Awards, 2021.