Theatre
Messiah
- Artists
- The English Concert, The Erebus Ensemble, Handel, Catherine Wyn Rogers, Julia Doyle, Harry Bicket
A Bristol Old Vic and The English Concert co-production
Messiah returns to Bristol Old Vic following its sell-out debut at Bristol Proms in 2013.
Handel’s profound religious masterpiece was wildly controversial at its Dublin premier in 1742. He insisted on the anchor alto role being sung by the disgraced divorcee actress Susannah Cibber and to have it performed in theatres and concert halls rather than churches reserved for sacred works, including its first performance at Bristol Old Vic in 1782.
is needed now More than ever
Inspired by Handel’s early performances of the work, this staging explores the dramatic heart of the piece, taking as its starting point the bereaved community of a messianic leader and the struggle towards faith that must have confronted them.
Staged by Tom Morris and featuring internationally-renowned soloists Catherine Wyn Rogers and Julia Doyle, The Erebus Ensemble (Songs of Hope) and Europe’s most celebrated Baroque orchestra The English Concert under the baton of Harry Bicket.
Renowned stage and screen actor Toby Jones, Theatre Ad Infinitum co-artistic director Nir Paldi, Extraordinary Bodies lead artist Jamie Beddard and actor and poet Jessica Murrain will each play the role of the Messiah for one night only. Drawing on the tradition of Passion Plays, from Europe to the Philippines, each night will offer a ritualised and entirely unique performance carried by some of the most sublime music ever written.
“A visual spectacle” – Bachtrack on Messiah (Bristol Proms, 2013)
7.30pm, £15-£40 (£8 Standing Pit). For more info and to book tickets, visit www.bristololdvic.org.uk/messiah.html
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