Monty Python member Terry Gilliam to direct Berlioz for English National Opera

LONDON – The English National Opera says its 2013-14 season will include the world premiere of Oedipus-inspired opera “Thebans” and the return of Monty Python member Terry Gilliam to direct a new production.

“Thebans,” based on the tragedies of Sophocles, is a first opera from composer Julian Anderson, with libretto by Irish playwright Frank McGuinness. It opens in May 2014.

Gilliam, who directed “The Damnation of Faust” at the ENO in 2011, will lead a production of Hector Berlioz’s “Benvenuto Cellini” in June 2014.

The season features 10 new productions, including “Cosi Fan Tutti,” directed by Katie Mitchell, and “The Magic Flute” directed by Simon McBurney — a co-production with the Netherlands Opera.

The company also plans revivals of successful recent productions of Benjamin Britten’s “Peter Grimes” and Philip Glass’ “Satyagraha.”