King Of The Oratorio

Another of the recordings of Handel oratorios made by Paul McCreesh and the Gabrieli Consort and Players, a three disk set of Theodora this time.These are very fine recordings and the cast is as usual of high quality. The title role is sung by Susan Gritton, while other roles are taken by Susan Bickley, Robin Blaze, Paul Agnew, Neal Davies and Angus Smith. The work is a story of early Christian persecution in Rome and the stance of death before dishonour taken by the heroine. It is also quite a convoluted story involving Roman converts, near escape and ultimate sacrifice. As usual, Handel has written some ravishing music, although because of the sheer length of the work there is an element of recycling going on too. McCreesh interestingly includes an alternative take of part two scene two which is included as a bonus at the end of disk two. The period informed playing of the Gabrielis is a perfect backing for the drama, the chorus is excellenbt and all the soloists acquit themselves very well. Susan Gritton conveys the piety of her role without making it bloodless and Robin Blaze and the convert who seeks to rescue her makes the most of his countertenor showcases. With the current climate amongst the "majors" in classical music recording, it is to be hoped that McCreesh and the Gabrielis are able to continue with their various ventures.