Sibling and romantic rivalry are at play in the court of Persia where King Xerxes and his brother vie for power and love in this masterpiece filled with unique comic overtones. Xerxes plans to marry Romilda, but his brother Arsamene is also in love with her. When a former fiancée vows revenge, entertaining complications abound, all set to Handel’s magical Baroque music.

Metropolitan Opera director Dan Rigazzi, who staged the company’s sold out production of Handel’s Julius Caesar in 2016, returns with his acclaimed stars Andrey Nemzer, Metropolitan Opera countertenor, Lara Lynn McGill as Romilda, and Cody Bowers as Arsamene.

Pittsburgh’s celebrated Chatham Baroque ensemble returns under the baton of conductor Walter Morales.

Sung in English with projected titles in English.

Celebrate Pittsburgh Festival Opera’s 40th season with the cast at the Opening Night Party following the performance on Friday, July 14.