Händels Messiah: A Capella
Time: 20:15
Date: Thursday 18 - Saturday 20 March
Duration: 75 min
Artists: The Oude Libertas Amphitheatre in Stellenbosch has over the years become synonymous with unique productions. The closure of their summer season this year is no different. From 18-20 March, Händel’s Messiah will, for the first time, be presented in A Cappella. This production promises to be a highlight on any music lover’s calendar. The whole orchestra will be replaced by a vocal ensemble consisting of Malie Kelly, Heidi Edeling, Roelof Colyn, Fanie Fouché and Anneke Visagie, with the exception of a harpsichord and a cello. The soloist for this unique production is Angela Kerrison (soprano), Minette du Toit-Pearce (mezzo/alto), Siyabonga Maqungo (tenor) and Jaco Klopper (baritone). The two choirs to join this journey are the Tygerberg Camerata and the Schola Cantorum conducted by Rudolf de Beer. The acclaimed musical director, Janine Neethling stands at the helm of this production and is excited about the opportinuty, but most of all, the challenges. Messiah: A Cappella is a production not to be missed. Come end your summer on a high note under the stars at Oude Libertas. All performances start at 20:15 and tickets are available from Computicket or by phoning 021 809 7473 or 021 809 7380.
George Fredric Händel conducted The Messiah many times in his lifetime and often altered the music to suit the needs of the singers and orchestra he had available to him for each performance. In consequence, no single version can be regarded as the “authentic” one. Many more variations and rearrangements were added in subsequent centuries. The arrangement by Janine Neethling for the Oude Libertas performance is newly added to the variations and the orchestra is replaced by a vocal ensemble. This production is the first of its kind in the world. Be part of this historic musical moment.
