Handel’s farewell to opera: “Deidamia” in Göttingen

Handel’s last opera “Deidamia” – before the composer turned his focus to oratorio – contains surprises as a game of hide-and-seek in women’s clothing. At the centre of this year’s Göttingen International Handel Festival, on 15 May 2026, we encounter the young Achilles who was sent to the island of Scyros. In order to escape from the prophecy that predicts his death on the battlefield, Achilles lives there disguised as a girl amongst the daughters of King Licomede and falls in love with his eldest daughter Deidamia. Loss, humour, heroism and love define the opera’s basic dramatic mood. The production in Göttingen is directed and conducted by George Petrou with a cast of leading international singers including Bruno de Sá, Sophie Junker and Nicolò Balducci. – (Photo: „Deidamia“ at Wexford Opera Festival 2025, revival in Göttingen 2026)