Giulio Cesare, Handel

G. F. Händel

Dramma per musica in three acts
libretto by Nicola Francesco Haym

from Giulio Cesare in Egitto by Giacomo Francesco Bussani

First performed at King’s Theatre, London, on February 20, 1724

Critical edition by Bernardo Ticci

 

Accademia Bizantina
Harpsichord and conductor – Ottavio Dantone

Stage Management: Bruno Berger-Gorski
Scenography: Carlos Santos
Lighting and video design: Pedro Chamizo
Costume design: Leo Martínez

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Ópera de Tenerife is partnering with the Teatro Guimerá for the 2024-2025 season to present a semi-staged production of George Frederick Handel's baroque opera, Giulio Cesare in Egitto (Julius Caesar in Egypt).

 

The story is set during Julius Caesar's Egyptian campaign (48-47 BC) and is based on the librettist Nicola Francesco Haym's interpretation of the historical events of the Roman Civil War. As Caesar pursues Pompeo, a Roman general who has become his rival, he travels to Egypt, where he meets and falls in love with Cleopatra. Her younger brother, King Ptolemy, hastily executes Pompey, incurring the wrath of many. Cornelia and Sesto, the wife and son of the murdered general, seek revenge for his death. At the same time, Cleopatra, Ptolemy's sister, is determined to claim the throne of Egypt, which is rightfully hers as the firstborn. She seeks the support of Caesar, who is smitten and backs her ambitions. Amid cheers from the people and warriors, Cleopatra is crowned queen, and she and Caesar exchange vows of loyalty and love.