Handel and Haydn Society is set to present “Crossing the Deep” on Jan. 17 and 19, 2025.

The showcase, which takes place at the New England Conservatory’s Jordan Hall, was created in 2023 by Conductor Dr. Anthony Trecek-King and countertenor Reginald Mobley as a response to the revelation that Handel had owned stock in companies involved the in slave trade. The resulting program contrasts Handel’s work with Negro spirituals, both created at the same time and using similar or the same Biblical texts. Mobley and Trecek-King are joined by literary performer, narrator, and author of the text Regie Gibson, as well as narrator Gillian Mackay-Smith, and soprano Brianna J. Robinson.

“The profound stories told by Handel and in the Spirituals—often referring to the same texts—resonate with each other, underscoring their common humanity,” said Trecek-King per an official press release. “At the same time, their stories diverge, prompting important questions about struggle, oppression, faith, and hope. We invite you to take this emotional and educational journey with H+H, and to experience the universal power of music.”

Each performance will be followed by a Q & A with Trecek-King and Mobley. The Jan. 17 showcase kicks off at 7:30 p.m. with the Jan. 19 set for a 3 p.m. start.

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