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Act 1 Julius Caesar arrives in Egypt after his victory over Pompey. Achilla, general of Tolomeo, presents Caesar with Pompey’s head as a gesture of alliance, hoping it will earn Caesar’s favor. However, Caesar is horrified at Tolomeo’s barbarism. Cornelia, Pompey’s widow, laments her loss and her son, Sesto, swears to avenge his father’s death. In the palace, Achilla relays Caesar’s disgust at Tolomeo’s actions. He offers to kill Ceasar in exchange for Cornelia. Cleopatra, recognizing an opportunity to use Caesar to strengthen her position, disguises herself as a servant named “Lydia” to gain his favor. She charms him with her beauty and intelligence, planting the seeds...

Here are eight fascinating and lesser-known facts about George Frideric Handel, the composer of Giulio Cesare: Handel’s Duel Over an Opera: Early in his career, Handel was involved in a duel with fellow composer Johann Mattheson. The quarrel occurred during a performance of Mattheson's opera Cleopatra in 1704, where Mattheson, who was also conducting, expected to take over a role from Handel, who refused. The duel ended when Mattheson’s sword struck Handel’s metal coat button, preventing injury, and the two quickly reconciled. Dual Nationality: Though born in Halle, Germany, Handel became a naturalized British citizen in 1727. His adoption of English citizenship solidified his identity as a leading composer in Eng...