Scheming men, political power struggles and confident women have been around for much longer than any Hollywood blockbusters! Georg Friedrich Händel knew just how to treat the antique story of Julius Caesar as early as 1724: Giulio Cesare comes to Egypt with the intention of defeating King Tolomeo and stabilising the nation’s political situation. But the Egyptian throne is hotly contested, as Tolomeo’s sister Cleopatra is trying to get back in power. She joins forces with Cesare, who, fascinated by her intelligence and beauty, helps her overthrow her brother.

Intrigues ensue: Cesare is betrayed by his own allies, but thanks to Cleopatra’s cunning cleverness and Cesare’s military advantage, they manage to defeat Tolomeo. Cleopatra becomes the new ruler of Egypt, and Cesare is celebrated for his victory. The opera ends on a combination of political power and personal passion, as Cesare and Cleopatra are building a new future together.

The complex political machinations of Julius Caesar had become legendary in Händel’s time and were further embellished for maximum effect: Together with Nicola Francesco Haym, the composer created a work between fact and fiction, masterfully dramatising this phase in the life of the Roman Emperor in “Giulio Cesare in Egitto”.

Georg Friedrich Händel (1685–1759) is still considered one of the most important composers of his time. His music continues to captivate audiences in concert halls and opera houses with its powerful melodies and dramatic sounds. He took the world of opera by storm when he was only 19 years old, working in Germany, Italy and later in London. It was here that he composed “Giulio Cesare”, already profiting from his successful career as an opera composer.

Extravagance, entertainment and splendour: The directorial team of Carlo Massari and Chiara Osella prove that the genre of opera can be timeless. With their respective experience in the areas of choreography and singing, the two directors have benefitted from their ideal collaboration in international projects for years. Teaming up with stage designer Eleonora De Leo and costume designer Emilia Zagnoli, they give their debut at the Salzburg State Theatre with the staging of “Giulio Cesare”.

Salzburger Landestheater

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