‘Handel’ was much ‘Too Hot’ at the Auditorium Theatre

The up beat contemporary oratorio Too Hot to Handel: The Jazz Messiah, inspired by the original genius of George Frederic Handel, was a showcase of dazzling flamboyance, passion and strong vocal talent. The fervent tenor of Roderick Dixon, along with Vict

The upbeat contemporary oratorio "Too Hot to Handel: The Jazz Messiah," inspired by the original genius of George Frederic Handel, was a showcase of dazzling flamboyance, passion and strong vocal talent. The fervent tenor of Roderick Dixon, along with Victor Trent Cook, counter tenor and soprano Alfreda Burke was stirring, displaying vocal pyrotechnics that were simply stirring.

The trio performed as part of the production held Dec. 12 and 14 at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University.

Along with the Too Hot To Handel Choir, Too Hot to Handel Orchestra and Too Hot To Handel Jazz Band, the production was dynamic.

Suzanne Mallare Acton was the conductor.

Even in the Baroque presentations of Handel’s Messiah there were often different arrangements and styles used in order to fit the techniques of the vocalists.

The arrangers and orchestrators of "Too Hot to Handel" utilized many aspects of modern and contemporary musical elements. "Too Hot" infused classical, romantic, modern, jazz, blues and gospel to create a musical force.

Dixon’s florid style was captivating and commanding. And each time Cook took to the microphone, showing his four-octave range, the audience was consumed. Burke’s soprano vocals were expressive and serene. The audience left the Auditorium Theatre warmed by the performance, transformed into "smokin’ hotties" by the energy they expended cheering for the singers and musicians.

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