Performer: Christopher Moulds

“How Excellent.”  The first words sung in Handel’s Saul are in praise of God and were first uttered in a performance nearly three centuries ago. But they apply equally to Claus Guth’s interpretation of the work staged by Theater an der Wien.

The evening’s most revelatory performance came from the young countertenor Aryeh Nussbaum Cohen as Medoro. 

Despite some dramatic frustrations, at least in Oslo, Jones' production is saved by some truly outstanding singing.