Beethoven: Fidelio - Royal Opera House (2021) [Blu-ray]

Beethoven’s only opera is a masterpiece, an uplifting story of risk and triumph. In this new production, conducted by Antonio Pappano, David Butt Philip plays the political prisoner Florestan, and Lise Davidsen his wife Leonore (disguised as ‘Fidelio’) who daringly sets out to rescue him. Set in strong counterpoint are the ingredients of domestic intrigue, determined love and the cruelty of an oppressive regime. The music is transcendent throughout, with highlights including the famous Act I Quartet, the Prisoners’ Chorus and Florestan’s aria, which conjures hope from the depths of despair. Tobias Kratzer’s new staging brings together the dark reality of the French Revolutionary ‘Terror’ and our own time to illuminate Fidelio’s inspiring message of shared humanity.

“Tobias Kratzer’s new staging rips Beethoven’s only opera in two to bring contemporary resonance… the singing is superb” (The Guardian)

“… it can hardly be faulted” (The Stage ★★★★)

… the show belongs to the Leonore of Norwegian soprano Lise Davidsen, whose rich, effortless sound and easy vocal athleticism (Beethoven is never easy on his singers) shine…” (Culture Whisper ★★★★)

“Pappano’s interpretation makes this much-revised score sound as though it had burst complete from Beethoven’s brow. It is a vital, provocative reading, symphonic in its shape, scope and style…” (The Time Literary Supplement)