Handel Messiah Tom Morris, Bristol Old Vic, 2017 eng s. subs

Recorded in April 2017, Messiah returned to Bristol Old Vic following its sellout debut at Bristol Proms in 2013. UK Theatre Web, Stage Talk, Classical Source, and The Reviews Hub all gave the production fivestar reviews. The Times said Director Tom Morris makes good use of the Old Vics intimate auditorium for this direct and impactful interpretation of Handels oratorio. The Stage called it astonishingly beautiful and a relatable and very human story of loss and grief. Positioned between opera and theatre, this powerfully accessible interpretation of Handels seminal work explores the drama and struggle of faith, showing a bereaved community whose grief at the loss of their leader is transformed into hope through a narrative of resurrection. Inspired by early performances of the work, which were staged in theatres and concert halls rather than churches, including its first performance at Bristol Old Vic in 1782, it is a rare treat for connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike.