Dijon launches Handel opera tour

Dijon is initiating a tour of George Frideric Handel’s Riccardo primo, an opera that has only been fully recorded twice. The tour will include performances in Paris, Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia, timed with the opera’s tricentenary.

Opera’s historical context

The libretto, written by Antonio Rolli, was adapted from an earlier one used by Antonio Lotti. It features dramatic elements familiar to 18th-century London audiences, including a storm scene and a mistaken identity plot involving Richard the Lionheart.

Performance cuts and audience reaction

The current version of the opera includes several cuts that do not change the main story but remove arias and recitatives. Some audience members expressed a desire for more content, suggesting they could have listened longer without tiring.

Staging and performer placement

Soloists perform from various positions, including the front stage, courtyard side, or a platform behind the orchestra. This setup disadvantages some performers, such as Paul Figuier as Oronte, but the opera has attracted a large audience and deserves wider distribution.

Notable performances and vocal highlights

Hugh Cutting’s portrayal of Riccardo is praised for its nobility and vocal power, with standout arias such as "Cessata è la procella" and "O vendicar mi." Melissa Petit’s Costanza is elegant and stylish, with strong medium and high notes.

Supporting roles and musical contributions

Paul Figuier’s Oronte is somewhat weak, but his arias are beautiful. Andreas Wolf’s Isacio brings flair and a powerful voice, while Juliette Mey’s Pulcheria has a fruity, virtuosic performance. The orchestra features a range of instruments, including recorders and oboes, with a total of 27 musicians.

Conducting and musical balance

Conductor Paul Agnew brings energy and precision to the performance, though the continuo section is sometimes too cautious. The strings dominate, leaving the woodwinds in the background except for solo parts.

Future of the tour

The tour is just beginning, and the first performance does not indicate the quality of future concerts. The opera, rare and inspiring, is being performed by committed and talented artists, suggesting promising future shows.