When you have a masterpiece like Handels Giulio Cesare, a director like David McVicar, a conductor like William Christie and a prestigious festival like Glyndebourne's, expectations are high. And they are more than fulfilled. It has long been McVicar's wish to direct Giulio Cesare. He has no trouble with the baroque copper form. Static? How so? McVicar sees the da capo form (ABA) as a natural process
… in which an emotion is deepened. Attention is paid to every word of the secco recitative. And remarkable, the opera performance is full of humor and the exciting instrumental cut-pieces are danced cheerfully. McVicar envisioned a Bollywood film: more than three hours of entertainment with a mixture of grand, profound tragedy and cheerful comedy and dance. It's working. The pleasure and inspiration radiate from the singers, no doubt thanks to the inspiring support of William Christie and the excellent orchestra. All are exploring their limits and the result is great. Not a minute of boredom. (CP)more
