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A warm welcome back to Dutch soprano Josefien Stoppelenburg, who first performed at the Festival in 2018 in the role of Angelica in the semi-staged performance of Handel’s Orlando. Josefien is joined by the exciting young Canadian countertenor Nicholas Burns—who regularly performs across Europe and North America—for some truly divine music, including the famous aria “Piangerò” from Giulio Cesare and duet “Io t’abbraccio” from Rodelinda.

The Festival’s artistic director Elizabeth Blumenstock provides lively and entertaining narrative throughout the performance to share the stories of the opera extracts.

This must-hear Handel program includes arias, duets, a dance and an overture from Ariodante, Giulio Cesare and Rodelinda; plus the Concerto Grosso in G Major Op.6, No.1, and a selection from the composer’s famous Water Music.

Josefien Stoppelenburg, soprano
Nicholas Burns, countertenor
Festival Orchestra led by Elizabeth Blumenstock

This concert is underwritten by Elaine Sarkaria.
Nicholas Burns’ appearance is supported by Larry Allen.

This Festival Finale Handel opera gala and its associated opportunities for student engagement are made possible in part by a Cultural Arts Grant from the Newport Beach Arts Commission.