Description

Handel - Giulio Cesare | Gran Teatre del Liceu 2 DVD Set

UPC: 824121001407

Product Features

Composer: George Frideric Handel
Conductor: Michael Hofstetter
Directed by: Herbert Wernicke
Featuring:Orchestra and Chorus: Orquestra Simfònica i Cor del Gran Teatre del Liceu
- Giulio Cesare: Flavio Oliver
- Cleopatra: Elena de la Merced
- Cornelia: Ewa Podleś
- Sesto: Maite Beaumont
- Tolomeo: Jordi Domènech
- Curio: David Menéndez
- Achilla: Oliver Zwarg
- Nireno: Itxaro Mentxaka
Running Time: Approx. 216 minutes
Audio Format: Dolby Digital 5.1, DTS 5.1, LPCM Stereo
Picture Format: 16:9, NTSC
Subtitles: English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Catalan
Region Code: 0 (All Regions)
Label: TDK

Overview

George Frideric Handel's Giulio Cesare is a monumental opera that tells the story of Julius Caesar and Cleopatra, set against a backdrop of political intrigue and passionate relationships. This 2004 production, recorded live at the Gran Teatre del Liceu in Barcelona, offers a visually stunning and musically captivating adaptation by Herbert Wernicke.

Under the baton of conductor Michael Hofstetter, the Orquestra Simfònica i Cor del Gran Teatre del Liceu delivers a rich and dynamic performance, blending Baroque elegance with modern sensibilities. The cast includes the exceptional Flavio Oliver as Giulio Cesare and Elena de la Merced as Cleopatra, both of whom bring depth and emotion to their roles.

The production is enhanced by Wernicke’s innovative stage and costume design, which incorporates elements from other Handel operas, creating a cohesive and immersive experience. With contributions from a strong supporting cast, including Ewa Podleś as Cornelia and Maite Beaumont as Sesto, this version of Giulio Cesare is a testament to the timelessness of Handel's music.

Interesting Facts

Giulio Cesare is one of Handel's most popular operas, composed in 1724. It is a masterpiece of Baroque opera, known for its beautiful arias and dramatic intensity.
Herbert Wernicke’s direction in this production incorporates scenes from other Handel operas like Rinaldo, Orlando, and Tolomeo, giving the performance a unique flavor and narrative depth.
Ewa Podleś, who plays Cornelia, is renowned for her powerful contralto voice and has been hailed for her performances in Baroque opera.
The Gran Teatre del Liceu is one of the most prestigious opera houses in Spain, known for its world-class productions and vibrant cultural programming.
The production was part of the Fòrum Universal de les Cultures Barcelona 2004, a significant cultural event that aimed to promote dialogue and diversity.

Track Listing

Disc 1:

Act I - Julius Caesar’s Triumph
Act I - Cleopatra’s Seduction
Act I - Tolomeo’s Schemes

Disc 2:

Act II - Betrayals and Alliances
Act III - Final Confrontation and Resolution

Extra Features

Subtitles: Available in English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Catalan
Liner Notes: Detailed information on the production, cast, and creative team in multiple languages