Credits:

Veronique Gens / Ivor Bolton

Description:

Handels final Italian opera is brought back to life in a sensational way through David Aldens witty and sensual production.This opera depicts the events leading up to the Trojan War with a touch of humor. Achilles, who was prophesied to die in battle, was raised as a girl by Lycomedes, king of the island of Scyros. The title character, Didamia (Lycomedes daughter), falls in love with Achilles. Ulysses (Odysseus), the brilliant strategist of the Greek army, uses a ruse to uncover Achilles true identity and attempts to recruit him into the Greek forces, butSally Matthews, in the role of Deidamia, captivates the audience with her acrobatic virtuosity in both singing and acting. Concerto Kln, one of Europes leading early-music orchestras, conducted by Ivo Bolton, draws lighthearted and dynamic music from Haydns score, creating a deeply satisfying performance.Columbia