Belshazzar

Oratory in Three Parts

Libretto by Charles Jennens

What constitutes legitimate government? To what extent is a head of government permitted to place his own interests at the centre of affairs of state? Can members of different religions ever live and work together peacefully? Handel’s 1745 oratorio "Belshazzar" continues to ask questions of global relevance today. In mid-18th-century England it was forbidden to show any biblical subjects on the stage. But by the time the mysterious words "Mene, mene, tekel" appear on the palace wall during a riotous feast, words that only the prophet Daniel can interpret, theology and thrilling drama have merged in Handel’s oratorio to form a unity of musical theatre. The French director Marie-Eve Signeyrole stages the fall of Babylon under its infamous ruler Belshazzar. In her production, the Arnold Schoenberg Choir portrays no fewer than three hostile Middle Eastern peoples who are carried by music performed by Christina Pluhar and her ensemble L’Arpeggiata.

In English with German & English surtitles

Introduction to the work 30 min before the performance

Introductory matinee: Sun 05.02., 11h

Premiere: Mon 20.02., 19h

Tickets: Belshazzar