Theodora was one of Handel's biggest box-office failures, receiving only four performances with very poorly attended houses.
Recording & Production
This recording of Theodora was made live at City Recital Hall, Sydney, over several dates in late 2016.
Compositional Technique
Handel often uses the orchestral accompaniment in Theodora to wordlessly depict a debate or conversation before a character sings, leaving interpretations open.
Historical Context
Theodora is unique among Handel's oratorios for being set in the early Christian period during a time of persecution, a story unfamiliar to 18th-century theatregoers.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Handel reportedly attributed Theodora's poor reception to its Christian story, which deterred Jewish audiences, and its virtuous theme, which deterred ladies.
Cultural Impact
The libretto for Theodora was adapted by Thomas Morell from Robert Boyle's novel The Martyrdom of Theodora and Didymus, with echoes of John Locke's Letter Concerning Toleration.
Composition History
Handel considered his oratorio Theodora to be his masterpiece, valuing it even more than the 'Hallelujah' Chorus in Messiah.
