Georg Friedrich Händel: Theodora

Joyce DiDonato, Lisette Oropesa, Michael Spyres, Paul-Antoine Benos-Dijan, John Chest, il pomo

Handel's dramatic Theodora with a luxury cast "With a luxury cast for Handel's Theodora, the Philharmonie Essen enticed lovers of baroque music and oratorios," wrote Das Opernglas enthusiastically of a top-class cast that even in the supporting roles featured world stars such as mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato and tenor Michael Spyres. The concert performance with the ensemble Il Pomo d'Oro under the direction of Maxim Emelyanychev now appears as a professional recording and sets new standards for Handel's rarely performed oratorio. As a mature work of the composer's age, Theodora dispenses entirely with showmanship and outward drama. Handel was interested in the drama of the soul; in his music he uncovers the most subtle emotions. Maxim Emelyanychev directs the action from the harpsichord. "His gripping, highly lively conducting creates exciting contrasts, and his fine, nuanced view of the characters makes all the figures appear as people of flesh and blood," praises Das Opernglas.

"This recording from the Philharmonie Essen presents George Frideric Handel's 'Theodora' without frills, but with a top-notch cast." (concerti) "With Maxim Emelyanychev, the devotional becomes a passionate, subtle psychodrarna. Sensational the vocal bravura Of Lisette Oropesa, Joyce DiDonato and Michael Spyres." (stereoplay, February 2023)

Price: $32.98