The Caesar of experienced Handelian Ewa Podleś, cast opposite Alexandra Deshorties as Cleopatra, showed many Seattleites what Handel’s operas are all about. In the alternate cast, Anna Burford and Christine Brandes were completely different yet equally strong. Other cast standouts included Helene Schneiderman as Cornelia and Brian Asawa as Tolomeo. Gary Thor Wedow made an amazing debut, whetting the ears of Seattle to hear more Baroque music. Director Robin Guarino worked with choreographer Donald Byrd, of Seattle’s Spectrum Dance, to tell the story visually, with remarkable dance sequences.