The great virtuoso competition of the three countertenors is back.

Castrati had an exceptional place in Baroque Europe as the first “stars” in the history of music. Almost all Italian and trained in the music conservatories of Naples, they devoted themselves to opera careers or to the service of the most prestigious royal chapels, including the Vatican and the Royal Chapel of Versailles, often combining both jobs.

Castrati routinely held the title role (and all the female parts in Rome), as well as several other important parts, in many operatic productions or sacred oratorios from Vienna to London, creating real competition on the stage. The result was an escalating display of virtuosity and emotion between the singers, which the audience would judge through its demands for encores, and by the opulent gifts proffered to the most venerated singers. Operas were also regularly complemented by “suitcase” arias that the most sought-after castrati would bring with them in order to truly shine.

With such an extraordinary trio as Samuel Mariño (Venezuela), Théo Imart (France) and Rafał Tomkiewicz (Poland), the audience is invited to a very high-flying competition indeed. Baroque in the extreme, the emulation between these primi uomi gave Italian operas their greatest appeal, and is revived here through the most thrilling vocal dynamics by the voices of three counter-tenors who reignite the glory of the castrati for a night.

Productions of the Royal Opera.

 Arias by Vivaldi, Haendel, Porpora…

DOGE CATEGORY: Best seats, a free programme, an invitation to the cocktail reception (opening 45 min before the show) and unlimited champagne.

PRESTIGE VIP CATEGORY : Best seats in house with complimentary glass of champagne and programme.

PRESTIGE CATEGORY : Excellent seats with complimentary glass of champagne and programme.

REDUCED RATE applicable to under 26s, Chateau de Versailles Spectacles card holders and groups of more than 10 people (excluding special company offer).

GROUP RATES for more information, please refer to our page dedicated to works councils and groups.

In case of any technical problem, the box office service remains available to complete your order by phone at +33 (0)1 30 83 78 89 (Monday-Friday from 11am to 6pm) or in our box office-shop (3 bis rue des Réservoirs, 78000 Versailles ; Monday-Friday from 11am to 6pm, and on Saturdays with concerts or shows except during the Musical Fountains Shows, from 2pm to 5pm).

To ensure the best welcome possible, people with limited mobility are advised to book their seats by telephone at +33 (0)1 30 83 78 89.