The Toronto Traveler

George Frideric Handel was born in 1685 in Germany and is most definitely one of the best known German composers.  He is famous for his composition of operas, of which Tamerlano is one.

Tamerlano premiered in the King’s Theatre in London on October 31, 1724.  It was actually co-produced by Italian lyricist Nicola Francesco Haym, although Handel was able to produce the music to this masterpiece in less than three weeks time!  Ever since its premier, Tamerlano has been very popular all over the world and it is performed at many different times throughout the year in some of the most prestigious opera houses of the world.

The actual opera itself does have some historical significance, as the character of the Ottoman Emperor Bajazet is based on a real historical figure.  In any case, the story is about the fall of the Emperor and the rise of the title character Tamerlano, who is the Emperor of the Tartars (Mongols).  Other major characters in the play include Asteria (the daughter of Emperor Bajazet) and Irene (Tamerlano’s bride to be).

While perhaps not quite fun for the whole family, at the same time it is a must for any music lover and a definite must for anyone that is an opera buff.

The screening will be taking place at 2:30 PM today at the St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts.  The Centre is located at 27 Front Street East which is quite close to King Subway Station.  Ticket prices are either $28.00 or $38.00 depending on where in the centre you want to sit and more information about the event can be obtained by calling 416-366-7723.

On a separate note regarding the blog, I’m still in the process of getting things back in order following the prolonged sickness I just had.  You’ll probably be getting these barebones posts for another day or so while I get things in order and at the moment I’m projecting that on Monday morning I’ll be able to sit down and give everything related to the blog the time it deserves.  At that point, I’ll be getting back to the more involved posts you’ve come to expect from The Toronto Traveler (and I’ll be replying to e-mails at that point as well, in case anyone has contacted me).

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