Lyric Opera 2024-2025 Issue 2 - Fidelio

Lyric Opera of Chicago | 22 ACT II Scene 1. In a secret isolated cell, Florestan, weakened from torture, hunger, and thirst, has a vision: his wife appears to him as an angel of freedom. Rocco and Leonore come down into the deepest vault of the prison to open the cistern, which is to be used as a grave. Leonore recognizes the unknown prisoner as her husband. Against Pizarro’s orders she hands him bread and wine, but dares do no more. When Pizarro appears and tries to stab the defenseless Florestan, she rushes to shield him. Pizarro, in a burst of rage, attempts to kill them both. Leonore draws a pistol and levels it at him. Suddenly a trumpet call is heard announcing the minister’s arrival. Leonore and Florestan are saved and reunited. Scene 2. Florestan’s fellow prisoners have been freed by the minister, and Leonore removes Florestan’s chains. Pizarro is arrested and led away, as the crowd hails Leonore for her courageous actions. Synopsis continued Corey Weaver / San Francisco Opera