WPR Will Broadcast Madison Opera’s ‘Fidelio’

Wisconsin Public Radio is pleased to present two productions by Madison Opera, beginning with Beethoven’s “Fidelio” on Saturday at noon.

Beethoven’s only opera is an ode to freedom. To rescue her husband, a political prisoner, the noblewoman Leonore, disguises herself as a man and works at the prison where she believes her husband is held. (See a complete synopsis here.)

The cast includes Alexandra LoBianco as Leonore, Clay Hilley as Florestan, Alisa Jordheim as Marzelline, Kelly Markgraf as Don Pizarro, Matt Boehler as Rocco, David Blalock as Jaquino and Liam Moran as Don Fernando.

John DeMain conducts this production recorded live at Overture Hall in Madison in November 2014.

The broadcast will also include an interview by WPR music host Lori Skelton with Madison Opera director Kathryn Smith.

Next week, WPR will air Rossini’s “The Barber of Seville” at noon.