A Voice of Faith

Faith Tested, Innocence Restored

We have now opened Opera North’s exciting new production of Handel’s Susanna — an inspiring collaboration with the dynamic Phoenix Dance Theatre, conducted with great skill by Johanna Soller and thoughtfully directed by Olivia Fuchs. Handel’s oratorio is a profoundly human drama centered on themes of truth, integrity, and the unwavering resistance required in the face of unjust accusation. Set within a society where reputation and power collide in complex ways, Susanna explores the immense courage needed to stand firmly by one’s convictions, as well as the redemptive and sustaining strength of love and faith when innocence itself is put to a severe trial.

Below is a selection of critical responses to the production and my performance.

“The two leads – soprano Anna Dennis (Susanna) and countertenor James Hall (her husband Joacim: absent for much of the action) prove vocally ideal: technically flawless and powerfully expressive.”
— Opera Now

“Among the principals, James Hall stands out as a warm, sympathetic Joacim, his nimble countertenor acing Handel’s showpieces.”
— The Guardian

“Countertenor James Hall sang Susanna’s trusting husband, whose effortlessly warm, agile voice was matched by considerable acting talent, most evidently when he found that his wife has been condemned.”
— Bachtrack

“Anna Dennis is astonishing in the title role … Much the same could be said of the countertenor James Hall as her loyal lover Joacim.”
— The Times

“James Hall’s Joacim gave one of the most moving countertenor performances I’ve heard. His singing had a kind of spiritual luminosity that complemented not only the source material but brought with it a sense of tenderness and love for Susanna that felt heartbreaking … one of those moments where everything—voices, orchestra, and movement—aligned perfectly.”
— Northern Arts Review

“There is strong, highly characterised singing throughout, with the two leads – soprano Anna Dennis’ Susanna and countertenor James Hall as her husband Joacim – vocally ideal for their assignments.”
— The Stage

“James Hall excels as Joacim, Susanna’s devoted husband, his warm countertenor conveying both tenderness and conviction.”
— British Theatre Guide

“Soprano Anna Dennis as Susanna and counter-tenor James Hall as Joacim totally inhabit their roles. The vocal ornamentation of both singers is impeccable.”
— Ilkley Gazette