Opera in three acts
Libretto by Nicola Francesco Haym
First performance: 20 February 1724, King’s Theatre, London
Premiere at Klaipėda State Music Theatre: George Frideric Handel’s Julius Caesar
On 9 October 2026, an exceptional premiere will take place on the stage of the Klaipėda State Music Theatre – for the first time in Lithuania, George Frideric Handel’s opera Julius Caesar will be staged. This authentically performed baroque work will enrich the theatre’s repertoire with new stylistic colours.
The production will feature KVMT soloists and guest artists from Lithuania and abroad, the Klaipėda Concert Hall Chamber Orchestra, and invited Baroque music instrumentalists. The KVMT ballet company will further enhance the performance.
Music director and conductor Rodrigo Calveyra (Brazil/France) emphasizes the importance of the opera:
“Staging a Baroque opera with authentic instruments and style is a major step forward. In Europe, such productions always attract great interest.”
The creative team includes director Tristan Braun (Germany), set and costume designer Sebastian Ellrich (Germany), and choreographer Nicola Mascia (Italy). The role of Julius Caesar will be performed by countertenor Christopher Lowrey (USA/UK), while the leading roles will be interpreted by Lina Dambrauskaitė (soprano), Renata Dubinskaitė (mezzo-soprano), Ivo Posti (countertenor, Estonia), and others.
A specially assembled ensemble for this Baroque opera in Klaipėda will perform on historical instruments such as the Baroque harp, viola da gamba, lute, Baroque oboes, and bassoons, giving the work an authentic musical colour.
