Jonas Berthod’s Concrete Opera was a design research project, comprising an installation of two elements: a libretto, and elements of a set design to accompany the narrative. The libretto explores living in London’s urban landscape, dealing with topics related to socio-cultural issues stemming from the politics of daily life. The publication touches on themes such as foreign investment, gentrification, riots, post-crisis survival, and the invisible infrastructures governing daily life in this cosmopolitan and ever-growing city. The set was presented as an installation of various graphic materials referencing moments in the story. It invited the viewers to re-enact and play parts of Concrete Opera, and let them take an active part in what is, ultimately, their own story.

Photo © Jonas Berthod