Two-time Tony-winning director-choreographer Christopher Wheeldon has launched a new production company, Toy Theater Productions, alongside partners producer Tobias Round and creative assistant Jillian Vanstone. The initiative looks to commission and produce new work across theatre, dance, music, and film.

Wheeldon began his career in the ballet world, choreographing with New York City Ballet beginning  in 1997. In 2002, he would make his first foray into musical theatre, choreographing the short-lived Sweet Smell of Success. His second outing, An American in Paris in 2015, was more successful. Wheeldon both directed and choreographed the stage adaptation of the classic movie musical, and won his first Tony Award for his choreography. He's currently represented on the Main Stem with long-running Michael Jackson bio-musical MJ.

“I’m thrilled to embark on a new chapter with Toy Theater Productions," says Wheeldon in a statement. "I’ve spent years pouring my energy into creating work of my own as a director and choreographer, and it will be gratifying to expand this practice by launching a production company that will support my creative exploration while also helping others bring their ideas to life. Musical theatre is a place where I’ve been welcomed and allowed to shine, and I hope to use my experiences as a springboard to nurture bold new voices and fresh collaborations.”

Wheeldon says the company's name is inspired by the very beginnings of his theatrical aspirations, from his early childhood. "As an only child, I spent hours building cardboard castles beneath wooden skies, where my toy theatre brought tiny worlds to life. And now, with Toy Theater Productions we get to see those childhood imaginings become reality," he shares.

The company intends to also provide creative consultancy services, and mentorship for emerging artists.

“Christopher is a once-in-a-generation artist, and it’s an honor to be part of this journey with him,” added Round. “This company is a place where he can explore and develop the deep well of brilliant ideas only he can conjure, as well as engage with, support, commission, and produce for groundbreaking artists.”

“I’ve had the deeply gratifying experience of working with Christopher for more than 15 years as a performer and rehearsal director, and it’s a joy to now collaborate on the development of new works and to support his extraordinary artistic vision,” says Vanstone. “Toy Theater Productions will be a company that builds on Christopher’s practice of creating art of the highest quality that is entertaining and enjoyed by all; and one that places the highest value on championing the greater artistic community."

Visit ToyTheaterProds.com.