Overview
Leonore disguises herself as a man, "Fidelio," to infiltrate a prison and rescue her husband, Florestan, unjustly imprisoned by the tyrant Pizarro. Gaining the trust of the jailer, Rocco, and his daughter, Marzelline—who unknowingly falls for Fidelio—Leonore’s courage is tested when Pizarro orders Florestan’s execution. In a climactic moment, she reveals her identity and saves Florestan just as the king’s minister arrives, restoring justice. The opera celebrates themes of love, sacrifice, and freedom.
Cast
- Gundula Janowitz as Leonore (Fidelio)
- Jon Vickers as Florestan
- Theo Adam as Don Pizarro
- William Wildermann as Rocco
- Stella Richmond as Marzelline
- Misha Raitzine as Jaquino
- Jean-Louis Soumagnas as Don Fernando
- Zubin Mehta as Self - Conductor