About the Show

Directed by Joe Hill-Gibbins with music by Handel, staged by Royal Opera and La Nuova Musica.

Born into poverty, the young Giustino dreams of heroism. When the Goddess of Fortune visits him and he rescues a noblewoman from a sea monster, his life appears transformed. But ambition alone cannot shield him from the court’s entanglements. As Giustino enters a world rife with betrayal, lust, and shifting loyalties, he must navigate perilous alliances to fulfil his destiny.

This new production of Giustino is directed by Joe Hill-Gibbins, whose past work includes The Marriage of Figaro (English National Opera) and Ghosts (Sam Wanamaker Playhouse). The musical direction is led by David Bates, conducting period ensemble La Nuova Musica. Scenic design is by Rosanna Vize with lighting by James Farncombe and associate direction from Jenny Ogilvie. The staging marks a rare UK professional performance of this Handel work on the site of its 1737 premiere.

Presented by The Royal Opera in co-production with La Nuova Musica, this staging continues the company’s exploration of Handel’s Covent Garden operas. The performance will be sung in Italian with English surtitles. Notable for its intricate arias and musical innovation—including an overture resembling a concerto—Giustino explores classical themes of valor, maturity, and the human cost of power, drawing from both myth and imperial Roman history.

Critic Reviews (5)

"This is a fine opportunity to hear one of Handel’s lesser known works, and the production does make a case for Giustino to be performed more frequently. "
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"David Bates’ La Nuova Musica are all zest and sway and surge in the pit... pacing the musical drama fast enough to motor over the thinner moments of plot while still lingering over the emotional meat of the action."
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"This may be one of Handel’s least known operas, but in this confident, musically expert realisation, it registers positively."
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"La Nuova Musica proves every bit as vital as the stage action. . . the evening is packed with lively playing. Highly recommended."
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"Joe Hill-Gibbins’ scaled-down staging is sensitive, and the music beautifully played and sung, but this is an uneven work dramatically"
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