The English Concert
Handel’s Giulio Cesare in Egitto
Harry Bicket, conductor
Christophe Dumaux, countertenor (Giulio Cesare)
Louise Alder, soprano (Cleopatra)
Paula Murrihy, mezzo-soprano (Sesto)
Beth Taylor, contralto (Cornelia)
John Holiday, countertenor (Tolomeo)
Meili Li, countertenor (Nireno)
Love, betrayal, family drama, and political intrigue—Handel’s blockbuster heroic opera recounts the historic meeting of Julius Caesar and Cleopatra, Queen of Egypt, through a series of unforgettable arias, vivid characterizations, and sumptuous orchestration. Dazzling British soprano Louise Alder sings the seductive central role of Cleopatra, opposite French countertenor Christophe Dumaux as her Caesar. It is hard to overstate the sublime performances director Harry Bicket coaxes from his brilliant soloists and his truly stellar ensemble. “Handel’s genius shone throughout in the English Concert’s magnificent orchestra, which played as if inhabiting the spirit of Handel himself” (San Francisco Classical Voice).
This performance is made possible, in part, by Beth DeAtley, Bernice Greene, and an anonymous patron sponsor.
This event is part of Cal Performances’ Illuminations: “Fractured History” programming for the 2024–25 season.
The Program Book will be available approximately one week before the performance.
