The Persian monarch Serses is said to have interrupted a military campaign to adorn a shady plane tree with gold ornaments. This curious declaration of love inspired Handel to one of his most famous melodies: the aria Ombra mai fu, better known as the 'Largo of Handel'. The opera Serse (1738) was not a success. In London, the Italian opera was already almost dead. Handel tried to turn the tide by
… mixing different genres. However, the public did not understand. Was this an 'opera seria'? Or a comedy? In the 20th century, however, this approach came to be appreciated as audiences had become familiar with Mozart's comedies. This beautiful production from 2000 is both stylish and ironic. The costumes and sets are mainly sleek in a black and white color scheme. Thus we see the stylized plane tree in an abstract construction of metal and glass. Jump into the field Sandrine Piau knows how to perfectly combine one of her arias with a costume party. Paula Rasmussen is also on a roll when she (!) Sets the aforementioned tree on fire in the role of arrogant title hero. Fortunately, a new tree is planned at the very end, in a slightly smaller greenhouse. (HJ) ), in the role of arrogant title hero, sets the aforementioned tree on fire. Fortunately, a new tree is planned at the very end, in a slightly smaller greenhouse. (HJ) ), in the role of arrogant title hero, sets the aforementioned tree on fire. Fortunately, a new tree is planned at the very end, in a slightly smaller greenhouse. (HJ)more
