A few days before the first performance of Handel’s Messiah, an announcement was published in Faulkner’s ‘Dublin Journal’ that read:

“Yesterday Mr. Handell’s new Grand Sacred Oratorio, called, The MESSIAH, was rehearsed... to a most Grand, Polite and crouded Audience; and was performed so well, that it gave universal Satisfaction to all present... Many Ladies and Gentlemen who are well-wishers to this Noble and Grand Charity for which this Oratorio was composed, request it as a Favour, that the Ladies who honour this Performance with their Presence would be pleased to come without Hoops, as it will greatly encrease the Charity, by making Room for more company.” 

A few days later a similar request was published in Faulkner’s ‘Dublin Journal’ requesting that “The Gentlemen are desired to come without their Swords.”

The first performance of Handel’s Messiah took place at noon on Tuesday, April 13, 1742 at the newly constructed Musick Hall in Dublin to a completely full house. 

Friends, if you haven’t seen a production of Handel’s Messiah in a while, you are welcome to come see it tonight (Dec. 10, 2023) at the Oakland Temple Interstake Center Auditorium (4780 Lincoln Ave). Admission is free and children are welcome. I’ll be on stage playing violin. I will also be performing it tomorrow (Dec. 11, 2023) at the California Theater in San Jose with a Baroque ensemble. 

I’m pretty sure if you want to wear hoop skirts to either performance you’ll be let in, but I suggest you leave your swords at home.