Description

Beethoven – Fidelio by Zurich Opera House (Opus Arte) DVD

UPC: 809478010234

Product Features:

Composer: Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827)
Singers:Orchestra and Chorus: Zurich Opera Orchestra and Chorus
- Leonore/Fidelio: Melanie Diener
- Florestan: Roberto Sacca
- Don Pizarro: Lucio Gallo
- Rocco: Alfred Muff
- Marzelline: Sandra Trattnigg
- Jaquino: Christoph Strehl
- Don Fernando: Krešimir Stražanac
Conductor: Bernard Haitink
Stage Director: Katharina Thalbach
Set Designer: Ezio Toffolutti
Lighting Designer: Hans-Rudolf Kunz
Chorus Master: Ernst Raffelsberger
Audio Formats: LPCM Stereo, DTS
Subtitles: English (Main Feature), German, Spanish, French
DVD Format: NTSC, compatible with PAL systems
Region Code: All regions
Running Time: Approx. 160 minutes
Extra Features: Illustrated synopsis and cast gallery

Overview

This production of Beethoven’s Fidelio, recorded at the Zurich Opera House, showcases a stellar performance of the composer’s only opera. Under the baton of the legendary Bernard Haitink, the Zurich Opera Orchestra presents a moving and dynamic performance of this timeless piece. Directed by Katharina Thalbach, this production features a cast led by Melanie Diener as the brave Leonore (Fidelio), with Roberto Sacca as Florestan, Lucio Gallo as the villainous Don Pizarro, and Alfred Muff as the compassionate jailer Rocco.

The opera’s second act includes the Leonore Overture No. 3, following a tradition established by Gustav Mahler, creating a striking musical interlude that adds depth to Beethoven’s masterwork. Filmed in high definition with true surround sound, this DVD is a part of an exciting new collaboration between Opus Arte and Opernhaus Zurich, ensuring a high-quality experience for viewers.

Interesting Facts:

Beethoven's Fidelio is the only opera composed by Ludwig van Beethoven, with its message of freedom and justice resonating throughout the ages.
The inclusion of Leonore Overture No. 3 as an interlude between the two scenes of the second act follows a tradition started by Gustav Mahler, adding dramatic weight to the performance.
Melanie Diener, who plays Leonore, has been widely praised for her interpretation of the role, blending vocal power with emotional depth.
The production was conducted by Bernard Haitink, one of the greatest conductors of the 20th and 21st centuries, known for his profound interpretations of Beethoven.
Katharina Thalbach's direction focuses on the opera’s core themes of courage and love, presenting a visually striking and emotionally resonant production.

Track Listing:

Fidelio, Op. 72 – Ludwig van Beethoven
Performed by Melanie Diener, Roberto Sacca, Lucio Gallo, Alfred Muff, Sandra Trattnigg, Christoph Strehl, and the Zurich Opera Orchestra and Chorus, conducted by Bernard Haitink.
Extra Features:
- Illustrated Synopsis
- Cast Gallery

Publishers:

Label: Opus Arte
Film Director: Felix Breisach
DVD Producer: Angela Alvarez Rilla
Executive Producer: Roland Ott
Production: Zurich Opera House, in collaboration with Felix Breisach Medienwerkstatt