Handel's ode Alexander's Feast, the power of music. A musical setting of Dryden's poem to celebrate the birthday of St Cecelia, the patron saint of music. At a feast to celebrate victory over the Persians, the power of wine, love and above all music motivate Alexander to initiate the burning down of Persepolis in retribution for the earlier sacking of Athens by the Persians. A semi-staged production with choir. orchestra, sets, dancers and action in an historically-informed performance, directed by Marco Vitale