Mark Your Calendars for 20th Production of Too Hot To Handel January, 2024
After a four-year absence, Rackham Choir is proud to announce the return of a student favorite – Too Hot To Handel at the Detroit Opera House.
Those who have seen it know – and those that haven’t are about to learn- this exuberant celebration is both uplifting and empowering. This year marks the 20th Production, and we have a new date that makes it ideal to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
This jazz-gospel version of George Frideric Handel’s “Messiah” incorporates several musical styles and scriptural messages of hope and inclusion that echo the Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Dr. King Jr.’s words of hope for peace and justice.
There is only one performance of this unique jazz-gospel take on the “Messiah.” Sure to be a performance to remember, the show features tenor Rodrick Dixon, soprano Alfreda Burke, and alto Karen Marie Richardson. They are joined by the Detroit Opera Orchestra, the Too Hot to Handel Trio, an all-star ensemble of outstanding Detroit classical, gospel and jazz musicians: Marion Hayden at the acoustic bass, Alvin Waddles at the piano and Dave Taylor on drums, and other performers. Maestra Suzanne Mallare Acton conducts the performance.
Special Student Dress Rehearsal
Friday, January 12, 2024
Study Guide:
There is an updated curriculum that will be advanced to your students. “Affirming Our Identities Through Music” explores the African American experience through the lens of the various genres included in Too Hot To Handel and the perspective of some of the principal performers as POC in the classical music world. This is also a great springboard for further discussions in February around Black History Month.
Reservations:
Student reservations are available for $10 each.
With every reservation for 10 Students, you receive one free Chaperone reservation.
There are scholarships available as well.
Reservations can be made by contacting Detroit Opera House Group Sales Associate Jeffery Sanders groupsales@detroitopera.org and (313) 309-8251.
One Night Only:
Saturday January 13, 2024
Tickets on sale this summer