John Sichel, French-English director, producer, and screenwriter (b. 1937)

John Peter Sichel, born on September 21, 1937, and passing away on April 5, 2005, was a distinguished British figure whose career spanned across film, stage, and television. Initially gaining recognition as a director, he later dedicated a significant part of his life to nurturing new talent as a trainer in these very industries. His career was marked by a profound commitment to bringing classical theatre to a wider audience through the screen and by his work with some of the most respected names in performance.

A Visionary Director of Stage and Screen

Early in his career, Sichel carved out a niche for himself by skillfully translating the rich tapestry of classical theatre repertoire from the stage to the screen. His meticulous approach allowed these timeless stories to reach audiences in new, accessible ways. A notable early achievement was his direction of a television adaptation of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night in 1969, featuring the legendary talents of Alec Guinness and Ralph Richardson. This success quickly brought him to the attention of Sir Laurence Olivier, a titan of British theatre.

Olivier personally invited Sichel to direct the prestigious National Theatre Company in the 1970 film adaptation of Anton Chekhov's poignant play, Three Sisters. This landmark production showcased an incredible ensemble cast including Olivier himself, Joan Plowright, and Alan Bates. Building on this momentum, Sichel again collaborated with Olivier and the National Theatre Company to direct Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice in 1973, bringing another classic to the screen. Interestingly, this production of The Merchant of Venice was remounted in 1976 for CBC in Canada, featuring a Canadian cast that included A. E. Holland as Shylock, Allan Grey, Micki Maunsell, Jack Rigg, and Barney O'Sullivan, showcasing Sichel’s work’s international adaptability.

Beyond his celebrated directorial work in classical adaptations, Sichel also made significant contributions to popular television. He produced the first three series of the gripping British anthology series Thriller, which aired between 1973 and 1974. These productions were for Associated Television (ATV), the same British company that had supported his earlier Shakespearean adaptations.

Collaborations with Leading Performers and Institutions

John Peter Sichel’s extensive experience as both a commissioner and director of drama and drama-documentaries provided him with unique opportunities to work with an impressive roster of prominent performers. In addition to the luminaries already mentioned, his collaborations included celebrated actors such as Derek Jacobi, Helen Mirren, Anthony Hopkins, Sean Connery, and Michael Caine. This list alone speaks volumes about his standing and influence within the industry.

His dedication to the arts extended into education and training, where he served as a director and trainer at several of the United Kingdom's most esteemed theatrical and educational institutions. These included the Young Vic, the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), the Shaw Theatre, the Italia Conti Academy, the London Film School, and even the renowned Edinburgh Festival. Through these roles, he profoundly shaped the next generation of actors, directors, and filmmakers, imparting his wealth of knowledge and practical experience.

ARTTS International: A Lasting Educational Legacy

In the latter part of his distinguished career, Sichel channeled his passion for developing talent into a remarkable initiative. He established ARTTS International in Bubwith, East Riding of Yorkshire. This innovative training facility was specifically designed to support artists in their pursuit of employment within the demanding stage, film, and television industries. It wasn't just about teaching; it was about bridging the gap between training and professional engagement.

Working alongside his wife, Elfie, John Peter Sichel’s efforts at ARTTS International had a far-reaching impact. Together, they helped over 500 young individuals secure employment in the arts, with trainees coming from as far afield as Indonesia and Iran. This global reach underscored the universal appeal and effectiveness of their unique training approach.

A Legacy Remembered

John Peter Sichel passed away at the age of 67 in East Riding of Yorkshire in 2005. His death prompted a remarkable outpouring of tributes: hundreds of his former trainees, many of whom had traveled across continents, gathered to pay their respects at a tribute arranged by his family. This deeply moving display was a testament to the profound and lasting influence he had on so many lives, underscoring his role not just as a teacher, but as a mentor and guide.

His personal legacy also extends through his daughters: Tanya Byron, a well-known British psychologist and TV presenter, and Katrina Sichel, a respected TV producer, both of whom continue to contribute to the creative and media landscape he helped shape.

FAQs

Who was John Peter Sichel?

John Peter Sichel was a prominent British director of film, stage, and television, who later became an influential trainer and educator in these fields. He was known for his work in adapting classical theatre for the screen and for establishing ARTTS International, a training facility for artists.

What was John Peter Sichel's primary contribution early in his career?

Early in his career, John Peter Sichel gained recognition for his ability to translate classical theatre repertoire to the screen, making iconic plays accessible to television and film audiences. This included notable adaptations of Shakespeare and Chekhov.

Which famous actors did John Peter Sichel direct or work with?

John Peter Sichel directed and collaborated with a remarkable array of acclaimed actors, including Alec Guinness, Ralph Richardson, Sir Laurence Olivier, Joan Plowright, Alan Bates, Derek Jacobi, Helen Mirren, Anthony Hopkins, Sean Connery, and Michael Caine.

What was ARTTS International?

ARTTS International was a training facility established by John Peter Sichel in Bubwith, East Riding of Yorkshire, during the latter years of his career. Its mission was to support artists in gaining employment within the stage, film, and television industries, and it helped hundreds of young people from around the world secure careers in the arts.

Did John Peter Sichel have connections to other well-known figures in the media industry?

Yes, John Peter Sichel was the father of two daughters who also became prominent in the media industry: Tanya Byron, a British psychologist and TV presenter, and Katrina Sichel, a TV producer.