Watch Fidelio in New York

The Metropolitan Opera is set to present Beethoven’s only opera, Fidelio, in New York, featuring a stellar cast and a production that resonates with contemporary themes of freedom and justice. Soprano Lise Davidsen takes on the role of Leonore, a woman who risks everything to liberate her imprisoned husband. Tenor David Butt Philip portrays the captive Florestan, while bass-baritone Tomasz Konieczny plays the villainous Don Pizarro.

The production also features veteran bass René Pape as the jailer Rocco, soprano Ying Fang and tenor Magnus Dietrich as the young lovers Marzelline and Jaquino, with bass Stephen Milling as the principled Don Fernando. Conducted by Susanna Mälkki, this production promises to be a compelling and emotionally resonant experience.

Book your Fidelio tickets in New York today and guarantee yourself a seat at this limited-time opera.

Story Overview

Act I of Fidelio in New York begins with Marzelline, the daughter of the prison warden Rocco, rejecting the advances of Jaquino, her father’s assistant, who wishes to marry her. Marzelline has fallen in love with Rocco’s new assistant, Fidelio, who is actually Leonore in disguise. Leonore is desperately searching for her husband, Florestan, who has been imprisoned for two years as a political prisoner. Rocco approves of the match between Marzelline and Fidelio and plans to seek permission from Don Pizarro, the prison governor. However, Leonore’s true identity remains hidden as she navigates the dangerous environment of the prison.

Rocco mentions a prisoner who is near death in an underground cell, and Leonore suspects it might be Florestan. She begs Rocco to take her along on his rounds despite it being forbidden. Meanwhile, Don Pizarro learns that Don Fernando, the minister of state, is coming to inspect the prison. Fearing that Fernando will discover Florestan alive, Pizarro tries to bribe Rocco to kill Florestan. When Rocco refuses, Pizarro decides to do it himself and orders Rocco to dig a grave. Leonore, overhearing this, prays for the strength to save her husband. She convinces Rocco to allow the prisoners a brief moment of fresh air, which he reluctantly grants. However, Pizarro quickly orders them back to their cells and warns Rocco not to disobey orders. Rocco and Leonore then descend into the prison to dig the grave.

Act II opens with Florestan in his cell, hallucinating that Leonore has come to free him. His vision turns to despair, and he collapses in exhaustion. Rocco and Leonore arrive and begin digging the grave. Florestan awakens but does not recognize his wife. Leonore struggles to maintain her composure upon hearing his voice. Florestan asks for water, and Rocco gives him wine, allowing Leonore to offer him some bread. As they prepare for the worst, Pizarro arrives to kill Florestan. At the critical moment, Leonore reveals her identity and stops Pizarro with a gun. A trumpet sounds, signaling the arrival of Don Fernando. Rocco and Pizarro leave to meet him, and Leonore and Florestan are joyfully reunited.

In the prison courtyard, Don Fernando proclaims justice for all. He is astonished when Rocco presents Florestan, his old friend, and recounts Leonore’s heroic actions. Pizarro is arrested, and Leonore frees Florestan from his chains. The other prisoners are also liberated, and the people celebrate Leonore’s bravery and dedication.

Don’t miss this extraordinary production of Fidelio in New York. Book your tickets now with us at VisitNYC.com and experience Beethoven’s timeless masterpiece brought to life by an exceptional cast and crew.

Cast Information

The Metropolitan Opera’s production of Fidelio in New York features an exceptional cast. Soprano Lise Davidsen stars as Leonore, a role that showcases her powerful and emotive voice. Tenor David Butt Philip plays the political prisoner Florestan, bringing depth and intensity to the character. Bass-baritone Tomasz Konieczny portrays the villainous Don Pizarro, while veteran bass René Pape takes on the role of the jailer Rocco. Soprano Ying Fang and tenor Magnus Dietrich, in his company debut, play the young lovers Marzelline and Jaquino. Bass Stephen Milling sings the principled Don Fernando, with Susanna Mälkki conducting the Fidelio shows in New York.

Venue Information

You can catch Fidelio shows in New York at the Metropolitan Opera House, located at 132 W 65th Street, New York, NY 10023. The venue is renowned for its stunning architecture and state-of-the-art acoustics, providing an immersive experience for opera-goers. The Met offers various amenities, including wheelchair access, elevators, and wireless headsets for sound amplification. The venue’s central location in Lincoln Center makes it easily accessible by public transportation and offers a range of dining options nearby.

Reviews and Audience Reception

The Metropolitan Opera’s production of Fidelio in New York has garnered widespread acclaim from both critics and audiences. Reviewers have praised the powerful performances of the cast, particularly Lise Davidsen’s portrayal of Leonore. Her vocal prowess and emotional depth have been highlighted as standout elements of the production. David Butt Philip’s Florestan has also received commendation for his intense and moving performance, capturing the character’s despair and hope with equal skill.

Critics have noted the striking direction by Susanna Mälkki, who brings a modern sensibility to Beethoven’s timeless opera. The production’s ability to draw parallels between the story’s themes of freedom and justice and contemporary issues has resonated deeply with audiences. The visual and musical elements of the production have been described as both innovative and faithful to the spirit of Beethoven’s work.

Those who buy their Fidelio tickets for New York will be treated to a seamless blend of traditional and modern elements in the staging. The use of lighting and set design to enhance the narrative has been particularly well-received. Many have commented on the emotional impact of the opera, with several noting that they were moved to tears by the performances and the story’s powerful message.

The combination of a stellar cast, insightful direction, and a resonant story makes this production a must-see event for opera enthusiasts and newcomers alike. The Met’s ability to bring fresh perspectives to classic works continues to solidify its reputation as one of the leading opera houses in the world.

Musical Numbers and Audience Favorites

Fidelio is celebrated for its powerful musical numbers that resonate deeply with audiences. One of the most iconic pieces is the Prisoners’ Chorus (O welche Lust), where the prisoners sing of their brief taste of freedom. This chorus is often highlighted as a moment of profound emotional impact, symbolizing hope and resilience.

Another standout is Leonore’s aria Abscheulicher! Wo eilst du hin? where she expresses her determination and courage. Florestan’s aria Gott! Welch Dunkel hier! is another audience favorite, showcasing his despair and longing for freedom. The opera’s finale, where Leonore and Florestan are reunited, is a triumphant and uplifting conclusion that leaves a lasting impression.

The combination of Beethoven’s masterful composition and the exceptional performances by the cast makes these musical numbers unforgettable highlights of Fidelio in New York.

Awards and Recognition

The Metropolitan Opera’s production of Fidelio has received significant acclaim and recognition. It has been praised for its innovative direction, powerful performances, and the ability to draw contemporary parallels with its themes of freedom and justice.

The production, Fidelio in New York, is also a part of the Met’s Live in HD series, which has won Peabody and Emmy Awards for its excellence in bringing opera to a global audience. The cast, particularly Lise Davidsen and David Butt Philip, have been lauded for their exceptional performances, contributing to the production’s critical success and audience admiration.

Run Length and Schedule

Fidelio at the Metropolitan Opera runs for approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes, including one intermission. The production is scheduled for a limited engagement, with performances running from March 4^th to March 15^th, 2025, so get your Fidelio tickets in NYC with us today to avoid disappointment.

The schedule includes evening performances and a matinee, providing multiple opportunities for audiences to experience this powerful opera. The Met’s detailed planning ensures that each performance is an experience to remember, allowing audiences to appreciate Beethoven’s only opera in a world-class setting fully.

Food and Beverage Options

The Metropolitan Opera offers a variety of food and beverage options for guests who come to see Fidelio in New York. Patrons can visit the Grand Tier Restaurant, which opens two hours before performances and offers a charming dining experience. Visitors can even opt to have dessert during the thirty-five-minute intermission.

If you’d rather eat elsewhere, the surrounding Lincoln Center area is home to numerous restaurants and cafes, so there’s a range of cuisines and dining options available before or after the show.