(Photo credit: Bengt Wanselius)

The Drottningholms Slottstteater in Stockholm has announced its main production for the summer of 2020: a new staging of “Agrippina” by George Frideric Handel.

The production will be from Swedish director Staffan Valdemar Holm. Francesco Corti , the acclaimed Italian harpsichordist who recently turned into a conductor, will lead Drottningholm Theatre Orchestra, which will play on period instruments.

The title role of Agrippina will be sung by Swedish mezzo-soprano Ann Hallenberg. Hallenberg is the festival’s current artist-in-residence. In addition to singing the title role, Hallenberg has been part of the festival’s decisions regarding the work, the production and the casting.

The cast will also include young Brazilian countertenor Bruno de Sá in the role of Nerone. Swedish mezzo Kristina Hammarström will take on the role of Ottone, Italian soprano Giulia Semenzato will sing Poppea, Italian baritone Renato Dolcini will play Pallante and Norwegian bass-baritone Emil Næshagen will sing Lesbo.

The Drottningholm Theater in Stockholm is one of the best preserved 18th century theaters in Europe, including its original scenery and stage machinery.

It was built in 1766 at the request of the Swedish Queen Louisa Ulrika and used until the death of her son, King Gustav III, in 1792.

Rediscovered in 1921, it has since been used in its original state and the theater offers works from the 17th and 18th century.

Performance Dates: August 8-22, 2020.