Samson and Delilah Tickets

The Story of Samson and Delilah

A regularly performed opera by Camille Saint-Saëns, Samson and Delilah appear in the chapter 16 of the Old Testament’s seventh edition, “Book of Judges”. Samson was a miracle baby born to a barren mother. God gifted him with an unmatched physical strength and after his birth, his parents were told by the Angel that he had to refrain from three things – wine and grapes, never cut his hair or beard, and avoid any contact with dead bodies.

As he grew older, Samson’s greater purpose in life was overpowered by his desire of lusts. Despite being a chosen one, he always acted in instinct without thinking about the consequences of his actions. His greatest strength was his courage as he single-handedly defeated an entire nation and freed its people. Samson’s lust for flesh cost him his dignity, freedom, physical sight, and eventually his life. But in the Bible, his realization and dependence on God earned him a place in the “Hall of Faith”.

Delilah’s Portrayal in the Story

Known as the ‘weak one’, Delilah used seduction and Samson’s weakness for women to her power that eventually resulted in his downfall. Lacking loyalty towards Samson, she also had a stubborn streak, and didn’t have genuine love for him. Her relationship with Samson parallels with the political and spiritual disarray of that time, meaning that just because you have won the battle doesn’t mean you have served the people.

Samson and Delilah in Concert

Musically, Samson and Delilah fires on every cylinder. The Settle Opera production features mezzo soprano J’Nai Bridges as the seductive Delilah. Executing the role perfectly, her rich vocals nail the moments of defiance, frustration, and fury. Yonghoon Lee, a celebrated tenor takes up the role of Samson and his breathtaking performance has impressed the audience. He displays his dismay and suffering through baritonal shades, elevating the show with his performance.

Crowd favorite Greer Grimsley makes his return to the McCaw Hall stage as the High Priest of Dagon. Blazing through the score, the live orchestra and lead performers transition through the scenes with a lot of grace. The chorus singing is spectacular and the opera rises in level with an overall impressive presentation. As the opera raises its curtains at the McCaw Hall in Seattle, make sure to get your Samson and Delilah tickets for the 2023 shows.