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Handel: Jephtha

Il Pomo D’oro, Joyce DiDonato and Michael Spyres

Joyce DiDonato in a black dress, leaning with her back against a wall

Joyce DiDonato and Michael Spyres star in Handel’s Jephtha – the composer's valedictory oratorio. 

This work bears the marks of the illness that afflicted Handel while he was composing it, but which did not undermine his faith. 'Whatever is, is right' sings the chorus.

Handel’s conviction and energy appear unshakeable. The original score bears the marks of the musician’s pain: ‘Arrived here on Wednesday 13 February. Couldn’t continue because of my left eye.' A little later, on 23 February, he writes: 'feeling slightly better, Have resumed work'. These words are reflected in his music. Joyce DiDonato will in turn embody this painful journey as one of the world’s finest opera singers, earning particular praise for her interpretations of Baroque music: ‘definitive … hair-raising intimacy and softness’ (OperaBase).

This performance will end at approximately 10.30pm with a 20-minute interval. 

Produced by the Barbican

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
​​​​​​​The Barbican is widely accessible by bus, tube, train and by foot or bicycle. Plan your journey and find more route information in ‘Your Visit’ or book your car parking space in advance.