BRATTLEBORO — Coming on the heels of two full-house performances of Verdi's Requiem at the Latchis, director Susan Dedell and the Brattleboro Concert Choir will begin rehearsal of George Frederic Handel's Samson, for performance in May with full orchestra and soloists.
Handel lore suggests that this was the composer's favorite, created soon after his celebrated Messiah. It is the story of Samson at the end of his days, full of character and drama - and Delilah.
The choruses are every bit as splendid as the ones in the “Messiah,” or “Israel in Egypt,” and the solo characters, in addition to Samson and Delilah, feature Samson's father, Manoah, his best friend, Micah, and a giant.
Dedell is celebrating her 25th year at the podium with the Brattleboro Concert Choir. As it did with the presentation of the documentary “Defiant Requiem” prior to the Verdi, the choir will present a special event tied to the story of Samson and Delilah.
“We intend to have a bit of fun as we dig into this zesty story of gender roles and perceptions. The writing is so theatrical the drama can't help but be part of the production,” Dedell says.
Rehearsals for Handel's Samson begin Wednesday, Jan. 28 at the River Garden on Main Street.