Handel, The Messiah

Handel: The Messiah | Concert

The Messiah is Handel’s most renowned work. Premiered in Dublin in 1742, the oratorio was an immediate triumph: ticket demand was so high that gentlemen were asked to “leave their swords at home” and ladies to come “without hoop skirts” to make room for more attendees and thus increase the revenue “destined for charitable causes.” During the great alto aria He was despised, Reverend Delany, overcome with emotion, stood up in the audience and cried out to the singer: “Woman, for this, may all your sins be forgiven!”

When later performed in London, The Messiah quickly became Handel’s signature piece. Performed thirty-six times during his lifetime, it soon came to embody all that is majestic and sublime in music. Charles Jennens constructed the libretto, dedicated to Christ, in three parts: the Nativity, the Passion and Resurrection, and the Redemption. The ideal alternation between solo arias and choral numbers is masterful, and Handel’s lyrical genius shines throughout the work: whether tender or triumphant, the arias are among his finest. The unforgettable choruses have echoed in listeners’ ears for over 250 years. In London, King George II was so moved by the Hallelujah that he stood up, followed by the entire audience — a tradition upheld by British audiences ever since.

The Choir and Orchestra of the Royal Opera, conducted by Théotime Langlois de Swarte, will provide perfect accompaniment for a quartet of outstanding young singers.

Les Productions de l’Opéra Royal

Prestige VIP – Best seats in the house, including a glass of champagne and the show program.
Prestige – Includes a complimentary glass of champagne.

Program and cast

Gwendoline Blondeel, soprano
Paul-Antoine Bénos-Djian, countertenor
Laurence Kilsby, tenor
Morgan Pearce, baritone
Choir of the Royal Opera
Orchestra of the Royal Opera
Théotime Langlois de Swarte, conductor

Program
Concert in English with French surtitles.

First part: 1h20
Intermission
Second part: 1h10