Apples for all! Antonio Cesti's 'Il pomo d’oro' triumphs in Innsbruck

Antonio Cesti's monumental 17th-century opera, "Il pomo d’oro," has been triumphantly revived at the Innsbruck Festival of Early Music, marking a significant achievement for the festival's 50th anniversary. Described as potentially the most spectacular operatic event of the 17th century, the production, under the direction of Fabio Ceresa, seemingly achieves its grandeur with playful ease. The opera was originally commissioned for the marriage of the Holy Roman Emperor in the mid-17th century, a lavish affair befitting the imperial court, intended to impress even Louis XIV in Paris. The revival at the festival, held in the Austrian Alps, brings this historical masterpiece to life for a modern audience. The festival itself is a major event for early music enthusiasts, and this ambitious production of "Il pomo d’oro" stands out as a highlight, showcasing the artistic and directorial prowess involved in recreating such a historically significant work.