Your events at Classical Events
Details
St Martin of Tours Church
Church Street
Epsom
Surrey
KT17 4PX
England
Tickets
Prices: Full ticket price £18 , under 18s free entry. (Adult tickets on door £20). No booking Fee.
Book Tickets
Programme
George Frideric Handel – Theodora, HWV 68
Performers
Ed Saklava – tenor
Cathy Bell – alto
Richard Decker – counter tenor
Cheryl Enever – soprano
Jon Stainsby – bass
Andrew Storey – Conductor
Kent Sinfonia
Ashtead Choral Society
Programme Note
Step into the world of ancient Rome, where faith is forbidden and love defies empire. Set in Roman-occupied Antioch, Theodora tells the tale of a noble Christian woman who refuses to renounce her faith. Condemned to a brothel by the Roman governor Valens, Didymus, a Roman soldier secretly converted to Christianity, risks everything to save her. Composed in 1750, Theodora features some of Handel’s most exquisite writing. The arias are tender and introspective, the choruses rich with solemn beauty. Handel himself considered it superior to Messiah, especially the chorus “He saw the lovely youth,” which he ranked above the famous “Hallelujah” chorus.
Though it was underappreciated in its time, Theodora is now hailed as a masterpiece of Baroque drama and musical expression. This is not just a concert — it’s a journey into the soul of Handel’s artistry. With its themes of courage, sacrifice, and spiritual transcendence, Theodora resonates deeply in today’s world.
Tickets & Practicalities
* Price includes a Programme and an interval glass of wine.
* Wheelchair users please call 07835 115716 to arrange available space.
* Seating is in the pews, please bring a cushion if you wish.
