Act 1

Act 1 of “Fidelio” begins with the overture, setting the somber tone of the Spanish prison where political dissidents are held captive. The first scene introduces us to Rocco, the prison overseer, and his daughter Marzelline. Marzelline sings “O wär ich schon mit dir vereint” (If only I were already united with you), expressing her longing for love. Jaquino, another prison guard, joins in with “Mir ist so wunderbar” (I feel so wonderful), expressing his love for Marzelline despite her rejection of him.

As Fidelio (Leonore in disguise) enters the scene, she sings “Hat man nicht auch Gold daneben” (Is there not also gold here beside), reflecting on the plight of the prisoners and her determination to find her husband, Florestan. Rocco sings “Jetzt, Schätzchen, jetzt sind wir allein” (Now, sweetheart, we are alone), as he converses with Fidelio about her employment at the prison.

Fidelio learns of Florestan’s imprisonment and impending execution by Don Pizarro, the tyrannical governor. She sings “Abscheulicher! Wo eilst du hin?” (Monster! Where are you hurrying to?), expressing her horror at Pizarro’s actions. The act concludes with Fidelio’s resolve to save Florestan, setting the stage for the dramatic events of Act 2

Act 2

In Act 2 of “Fidelio,” the tension escalates as Leonore (disguised as Fidelio) continues her mission to rescue her husband, Florestan, who is unjustly imprisoned in a Spanish dungeon. The act opens with a chorus of prisoners lamenting their fate in “O welche Lust” (Oh, what joy). Their despair is palpable as they yearn for freedom.

Leonore, aided by Rocco, learns of Florestan’s whereabouts and disguises herself as a boy to gain access to his cell. She sings “Komm, Hoffnung, lass den letzten Stern” (Come, hope, let the last star) as she searches for Florestan, her hope undeterred despite the grim circumstances.

Meanwhile, Don Pizarro, the cruel governor, plots to silence Florestan forever to prevent his exposure of Pizarro’s tyranny. Pizarro sings “Ha! Welch ein Augenblick!” (Ha! What a moment!) as he prepares to execute his prisoner.

As Leonore reaches Florestan’s cell, she discovers him weak and near death. She sings “Nur hurtig fort, nur frisch gegraben” (Only quickly away, only freshly dug) as she digs desperately to free him from his chains. Their emotional reunion is underscored by their duet “O namenlose Freude!” (O nameless joy!), expressing their overwhelming relief and love.

The act concludes with the arrival of Don Fernando, the Minister of State, who intervenes to restore justice. The prisoners are freed, and Leonore’s bravery is celebrated in the triumphant finale “Wer ein holdes Weib errungen” (Whoever has won a noble wife). Florestan and Leonore emerge victorious, their love and courage prevailing against all odds.