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

Leonore (Fidelio)

Jon Vickers

Florestan

Theo Adam

Don Pizarro

William Wildermann

Rocco

Stella Richmond

Marzelline

Misha Raitzine

Jaquino

Jean-Louis Soumagnas

Don Fernando