Justice and love triumph over oppression and tyranny in Beethoven’s sole operatic work – a
sublime celebration of freedom. Devoted wife Leonore poses as a man (Fidelio) in order to rescue her husband, wrongly imprisoned for his political beliefs. Beethoven’s highly dramatic score elevates the simple, powerful human drama to a higher plane. Vocal highlights include glorious ensembles, the
moving “Prisoners’ Chorus,” an ecstatic love duet, and a triumphant final chorus that fills the stage with joy.
In German with English subtitles | at McCaw Hall
Approximate Running Time: 2 hours, 40 minutes, with 1 intermission
Audio described performance for visually impaired patrons available on Sunday, October 14. Description begins 10 minutes prior to the beginning of the matinee.
Accessibility Information
Availability Update:
Best Prices and Availability: Wednesday, October 24
Good Availability: Saturday, October 20 and Saturday, October 27
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Features
Video
Watch a preview of dress rehearsal footage (complete with full orchestra & chorus) featuring Maestro Asher Fisch and the talented cast bringing Beethoven's dramatic score to life.
Video
Director Chris Alexander introduces the corps of local volunteers who will take the stage in FIDELIO’s triumphant finale. Three minute video includes wardrobe review montage and staging rehearsal footage.
Video
Learn more about Fidelio from our latest video, in which Maestro Asher Fisch and stage director Chris Alexander discuss how Beethoven's dynamic music heightens the pathos of the opera's compelling story. Video includes footage of principal cast members in rehearsal.
Video
On September 12, 2012, 50 community members joined the Seattle Opera chorus for our first-ever singalong: The final scene from Fidelio.
Video
Sit in on a conversation between General Director Speight Jenkins and Principal Guest Conductor Asher Fisch about Beethoven’s radiant ode to freedom and humanity. Topics include the unique demands of the title role, how Beethoven composed such rigorous and dramatic music despite his hearing loss, and why the opera is so timeless and relevant to our everyday lives.
Artists
German soprano Christiane Libor makes her U.S. operatic debut as the fearless Leonore, determined to find and free her wrongfully-imprisoned husband Florestan (tenor Clifton Forbis).
Photos
Take a look at the Fidelio leads and see photos from Seattle Opera’s 2003 production, which The Seattle Times called “As poignant and timeless as the music itself.”
Synopsis
Beethoven's only opera celebrates courage and hope in the face of oppression and tyranny, and is as relevant today as it was in 1814.
Banner Photo Credit
© Rozarii Lynch, Fidelio, Seattle Opera, 2003