Photo : Le Concert Spirituel / Christelle TEA
Israel in Egypt
Carried by an epic breath, "Israel in Egypt", whose text is taken from the Holy Scriptures, makes the choir its central character. Handel's music is brilliantly descriptive here, and nature is particularly highlighted. The composer sets to music the plagues of Egypt (frogs, hail, pestilence, etc.), as well as the crossing of the Red Sea.
Théâtre des Champs-Elysées (Paris 8th)
About
In Israel in Egypt, Handel develops his text from biblical quotations and narrates, in a succession of scenes, the story of the liberation of the Jewish people from the Egyptian yoke, which begins with the famous episode of the ten plagues of Egypt: the waters of the Nile turned into blood, the invasion of frogs, the deluge of hail, the devastation of crops by locusts, and the death of the firstborn.
Guided by God, the Jewish people set out, crossing the miraculously dried-up Red Sea, which closes just as miraculously and violently on the Egyptian horsemen in pursuit. In the second part, rich in large choral masses, the choir and soloists sing the praises and greatness of the Lord.
For the recording, Hervé Niquet proposed as an introduction to this work the Organ Concerto HWV 295, nicknamed "The Cuckoo and the Nightingale" due to the motifs in the second movement, which was composed by Handel as an interlude to Israel in Egypt during its premiere in 1739 at the King’s Theatre in London.
Our take on this event
Experience the sheer dramatic power of Handel’s masterpiece as it unfolds through soaring choral movements and ancient tales of liberation. Whether you are a classical music aficionado or simply looking for an awe-inspiring performance, this musical odyssey promises a truly unforgettable atmosphere.
The Théâtre des Champs-Élysées presents Handel's Israel in Egypt on Saturday, February 27, 2027. This monumental work narrates the biblical story of the Jewish people's liberation, ranging from the dramatic ten plagues of Egypt to the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea. Featuring powerful choral movements and soloists, the performance offers an immersive journey through this baroque masterpiece. The concert is open to audiences aged 10 and over and runs from 19:30 to 21:30. It is a rare opportunity to experience this grand composition within the prestigious setting of the 8th arrondissement.
Experience the intense biblical drama of Handel's Israel in Egypt, a composition that masterfully portrays the liberation of the Jewish people. The performance begins with the striking account of the ten plagues, including the turning of the Nile to blood, the plague of frogs, and the destruction of crops. The narrative builds toward the miraculous parting of the Red Sea, followed by a second half dedicated to grand choral praise and the glorification of the Lord.
To begin the evening, the program features the Organ Concerto HWV 295, known as The Cuckoo and the Nightingale. Originally composed by Handel as an interlude for the work's 1739 premiere at the King's Theatre in London, this piece adds a distinct musical texture to the proceedings. The event takes place on Saturday, February 27, 2027, at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées in Paris, from 19:30 until 21:30. Please note that this is a paid event suitable for guests aged 10 and older.
