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Handel's Theodora

Arcangelo/Jonathan Cohen

Jonathan Cohen sitting on wooden steps

Period ensemble Arcangelo prove why Handel’s undervalued oratorio deserves its place on stage, both musically and for its depiction of an inspiring heroine, brought to life tonight by Louise Alder.

Handel’s Theodora belongs among works that have inexplicably taken time to get on our stages. A flop at its first performance in 1750, it’s only recently been recognised as a masterpiece. Was it the story of persecution and martyrdom? Maybe, but despite the dark ending, Handel creates one of his strongest heroines, noble until the end, and gives her heart-wrenching music. Tonight Louise Alder, winner of a recent Critics’ Circle Music Award, takes on the role.

Formed in 2010 by Jonathan Cohen, Arcangelo have won a reputation for the energy and drama of its period performances. They gave the first Proms staging of Theodora in 2018, praised by the Guardian for its ‘dramatic momentum’, with Alder ‘radiantly assertive’ in the title role. They’re joined by some of today’s leading singers to continue the renaissance Theodora deserves.

This performance will finish at approximately 10pm, including a 20-minute interval

Produced by the Barbican

Digital programme

Hall

Location
The Barbican Hall is located within the main Barbican building. Head to Level G and follow the signs to find your seating level. 

Address
Barbican Centre
Silk Street, London
EC2Y 8DS

Public transport
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