Cast
Monteverdi Choir
English Baroque Soloists
John Eliot Gardiner Conductor
Concert in English with French surtitles
Presentation
Israel in Egypt is something of an oddity in Handel’s career: begun in 1739, just three days after he finished writing Saul, this new oratorio written on two holy texts (like Messiah but two years earlier), was intended to be performed in theatres. What’s more, Handel included twenty-eight choruses for just four arias and three duets, an entirely unprecedented balance that unnerved the audience at the première, who were already scandalised by this religious music being played in a secular space like an opera.
However, it became an essential work in the following centuries, fitting for colossal, unifying and somewhat patriotic interpretations. Today, it is a fantastical choral celebration, an astonishingly realistic illustration of the plagues of Egypt and the crossing of the Red Sea, the waves parted by Moses, ultimately destroying the Pharaoh’s troops. This is Hollywood before its time!
John Eliot Gardiner has developed a passion for Handel that he conveys with incredible precision through his Monteverdi Choir. Revisiting Israel in Egypt, he invites the audience to an impressive demonstration of the excellence of his choir – the greatest choir in the world – in all its glory in the Chapelle Royale!
Royal Chapel
More info
Royal Chapel - Access map
Prices
Catégorie 3
Catégorie 2
Catégorie 1
Prestige
Prestige VIP
PRESTIGE VIP CATEGORY : Best seats in house with complimentary glass of champagne and programme.
PRESTIGE CATEGORY : Excellent seats with complimentary glass of champagne and programme.
REDUCED RATE applicable to under 26s, Chateau de Versailles Spectacles card holders and groups of more than 10 people (excluding special company offer).
To ensure the best welcome possible, people with limited mobility are advised to book their seats by telephone at +33 (0)1 30 83 78 89.
In case of any technical problem, the box office service remain available to complete your order by phone at +33 (0)1 30 83 78 89 (Monday-Friday from 11am to 6pm) or in our box office-shop (3 bis rue des Réservoirs, 78000 Versailles ; Monday-Friday from 11am to 6pm, and on Saturdays with concerts or shows except during the Musical Fountains Shows, from 2pm to 5pm).
