Handel's Giulio Cesare

Giulio Cesare in Egitto, perhaps one of Handel’s greatest operas is performed here at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées. Staged by Damiano Michieletto and conducted by Philippe Jaroussky, Gaëlle Arquez, Sabine Devieilhe, and Franco Fagioli all shine in the principal roles!

As soon as the lights go down, the hall erupts as Philippe Jaroussky takes to the podium for the first time as a conductor with his ensemble Artaserse! The French countertenor has now come full circle—as a 21 year old he took to the stage at the Musée Grévin in his first ever recital, performing arias from the opera he is now conducting! This opera in three acts retells the story of Caesar and Cleopatra during the rise of the Romans over the Egyptians. Caesar, conqueror of Egypt, played by Gaëlle Arquez is begged by Cornelia (Lucile Richardot) to save her husband. Achilla (servant of Tolomeo, the King of Egypt) arrives with Pompeo’s head as a favour to the Roman emperor. Shocked by his cowardice, Cesar promises to get justice whereas Sextus, Pompeo’s son, is incensed and vows his revenge. Cleopatra, sister of Tolomeo, sees an opportunity to seize the Egyptian throne. Cleopatra seduces Cesar in an attempt to manipulate the emperor, but the two fall in love with each other, thus ruining Cleopatra’s plans. Join these stunning voices for a night of vengeance, politics and love!