the Royal Opera of Versailles stages Handel’s opera Tamerlano

Photos Opéra Royal  -  CVS © Yuhao 

Versailles, France - On 30 June 2026, the Royal Opera of Versailles will host a concert performance of George Frideric Handel’s opera Tamerlano, presented at the initiative of the Uzbekistan Art and Culture Development Foundation.

Composed in 1724, Tamerlano is regarded as one of Handel’s most significant operatic masterpieces, distinguished by its dramatic intensity and extraordinary vocal virtuosity. In this new interpretation, the musical concept developed by Kirill Richter combines the Baroque foundation of the work with a contemporary musical perspective, delicately expanding and reimagining the original score while preserving its essence.
The performance will feature the National Symphony Orchestra of Uzbekistan under the baton of Alibek Kabdurakhmanov, together with the Honored State Choir of the Republic of Uzbekistan, led by Artistic Director Gulnara Malikova. The principal roles will be performed by Zhenisbek Piyazov (Tamerlano), Juan Sancho (Bayezid), and Veronica Cangemi (Asteria).
Following its acclaimed premiere at the Musikverein, the project continues its international journey. For the first time in France, the opera will be presented as an independent concert version, revealing the work in its pure musical form and placing particular emphasis on its orchestral, choral, and vocal dramaturgy.
Inspired by the historical figure of Amir Timur (Tamerlane), the opera explores timeless themes of power, love, destiny, and moral choice. More than three centuries after its creation, the work retains its dramatic force and contemporary relevance. This remarkable masterpiece—composed by Handel in just twenty days—finds new life in a production that bridges cultures, traditions, and musical eras.
In 2024, Tamerlano celebrated its 300th anniversary, marked by a major new production realized by the Uzbekistan Art and Culture Development Foundation.

Creative Team and Cast
George Frideric Handel / Kirill Richter – Composer / Musical Concept
Alibek Kabdurakhmanov – Conductor
Veronica Cangemi – Soprano (Asteria)
Zhenisbek Piyazov – Baritone (Tamerlano)
Juan Sancho – Tenor (Bayezid)
National Symphony Orchestra of Uzbekistan
Honored State Choir of Uzbekistan