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Theodora, a princess who has converted to Christianity, would rather die than obey the Roman emperor’s order to worship Jupiter. The Roman officer Didymus, who is secretly a Christian, tries to save her. Handel’s penultimate oratorio is a contemplative work centred on religious tolerance and humanist values. In the fight for freedom of conscience and resistance to totalitarianism, Theodora has lost none of its relevance. Handel’s colourful music contributes nuanced sketches of his persecuted protagonists’ inner life. Star soprano Lea Desandre takes on the role of Theodora, while Hugh Cutting, lauded for his voice and stage presence, plays the role of Didymus. Under the direction of Thomas Dunford, Ensemble Jupiter storm the heavens with their vivid performance of this poignant oratorio.?