Opera Matinee

Der Freischütz (The Marksman), a landmark of German Romantic opera, combines supernatural elements with folklore and spoken dialogue in a struggle between good and evil when an unsuccessful marksman makes a nefarious pact with the devil for skill and love. A recorded presentation of Wolf Trap Opera's 2022 season at The Barns.

Susannah, by American composer Carlisle Floyd, a two-act work composed during 1950s, is based on the parable Susannah and the Elders, a powerful and tragic story of an innocent young woman whose life is ruined by jealousy and the taint of a false accusation. A recorded presentation from Wolf Trap Opera's 2022 season at The Barns.

Beethoven's only opera, Fidelio, is a dramatic story of fidelity, courage and triumph over struggle. Acclaimed tenor Brandon Jovanovich stars as the political prisoner Florestan, in a production of the Vienna State Opera.

Based on Biblical story of Herod, Salome and John the Baptist, Salome shocked audiences at its premiere in 1905 -- a traumatic and erotic tale of a princess who requests murder as a reward, along the Dance of the Seven Veils. A production of Vienna State Opera, with Malin Byström in the title role.

Inspired by President Richard Nixon's 1972 historic visit to the People's Republic of China, Nixon in China premiered in 1987 and has become an audience favorite, combining seriousness and levity. Renowned baritone Thomas Hampson in the title role, with Renee Fleming as Pat Nixon. A production of Opéra de Paris.

Unheard since its premiere in 1842, Il Proscritto (The Outlaw) is a drama of divided loyalties set in Edinburgh at the time of Oliver Cromwell. Mercadante's orchestration includes harmonic and dramatic innovations, influenced by French opera. Renowned tenor Ramón Vargas in the title role. A production of Opera Rara, conducted by Carlo Rizzi.

Adapted from an epic poem about love and revenge set against the First Crusade, Verdi's first grand opera explores themes of conflict, mercy, and redemption. This production of Munich Radio Opera stars Nino Machaidze and Michele Pertusi.