Hudson Sets Sail

TICKETS ON SALE, 10AM on 9/1

Set against the beautiful backdrop of the Hudson River, Handel Sets Sail continues Hudson Hall’s Handel on the Hudson opera series with intimate performances aboard the Schooner Apollonia, a historic wind-powered sailing vessel.

Featuring guest vocalists alongside musicians from early music band Ruckus (Rodelinda, Giulio Cesare), these performances offer a close encounter with Handel’s music, drawing on the spirit of seafaring and adventure at the heart of Hudson Hall’s upcoming production of Deidamia (2027), directed by R. B. Schlather.

Hudson Sets Sail: Douglas Ray Williams

• Aboard the Schooner Apollonia
• Two sails on Saturday, September 12, 2026
• First sail: 5:00 PM
• Second sail: 6:30 PM
• Departs from Henry Hudson Riverfront Park
• 75–90 min sail. Limited capacity
• On-board refreshments provided

Douglas Ray Williams, bass-baritone

Known to Hudson Hall audiences for his searing performances in Rodelinda and Giulio Cesare, Douglas Ray Williams sheds his villainous roles for a charming evening of Handel on the Hudson River accompanied by keyboardist Elliot Figg (Ruckus).

Douglas Ray Williams is a bass-baritone and actor known for his expressive performances across opera and concert stages worldwide. He has appeared with leading ensembles including the Berlin Philharmonic, Boston Symphony Orchestra, and London Symphony Orchestra, and is featured on numerous acclaimed recordings.

Elliot Figg, keyboard

Elliot Figg is a keyboardist, conductor, and composer based in New York City. He is a core member of Ruckus, ACRONYM, Makaris, and House of Time. Recent operatic engagements include assistant conductor and harpsichordist for Gluck’s Orfeo (Dallas Opera), Haydn’s Jupiter’s Journey to Earth (Little Opera Theatre of NY), Vivaldi’s Farnace, Cavalli’s Veremonda (Spoleto Festival USA), and Dido and Aeneas (LA Opera).

Tickets: $95 per sail. Due to very limited capacity, ticket purchases are limited to two per person.

Please note: This performance takes place aboard a sailing vessel on the Hudson River. By purchasing a ticket, you acknowledge that participation involves inherent risks associated with boating and water-based activities. This event is weather-dependent and may be rescheduled or canceled. In the event of cancellation by Hudson Hall, a full refund will be issued.