London Handel Festival

The London Handel Festival returns 27 March to 29 April 2019 with a host of fantastic events.

What is it?

Each year the Festival has a slightly different theme through which to explore the life, work and cultural influences of George Frideric Handel. In 2019 the theme is 'Handel's Divas', taking an in depth look into eminent female singers, or 'divas', for whom Handel wrote many of his most celebrated roles. In addition, the Festival delves into those inspirational women who brought Handel's music to life, captivated popular imagination, and populated gossip columns.

What can I expect?

A 'Come and Sing' event - a great opportunity to perform Messiah excerpts with musical director, Laurence Cummings
Debut of Berenice at the Royal Opera House, which hasn't been heard there since 1737, when Handel first presented it
Rare performances of oratorio Athalia and serenata Aci, Galatea & Polifemo
Le Concert de l’Hostel Dieu from Lyon with a captivating programme of Handel and Porpora
Festival Voices with a surprising remix of Dixit Dominus
Opera Settecento performing Venceslao
London Early Opera and Early Opera Company, each presenting programmes focused on specific Handelian divas

Plus a full calendar of intimate chamber music recitals, lunchtime concerts, guided walks and the annual international Handel Singing Competition, now in its 18th year.

If you can't wait until 2019 then you're in luck - there are two performances of the Christmas Messiah in December 2018. View the full programme calender.