To honor the bicentenary of Ludwig van Beethoven’s death, Teatro alla Scala presents a captivating historical dialogue by staging Ferdinando Paër’s “Leonora.” Premiered in Dresden in 1804—just one year before Beethoven introduced his own “Fidelio” based on the exact same French source material—this rare masterpiece helps illuminate the rich musical landscape of the early nineteenth century.
Entrusted to the talented young forces of the La Scala Academy, the production features maestro Roland Böer on the podium. It also marks the highly anticipated house debut of director Daniele Menghini, a rising star who recently won the prestigious Italian Critics’ Abbiati Prize, promising a fresh and modern perspective on this forgotten gem.
Plot of Leonora
Set during a period of political turmoil, the noble Florestano has been unjustly and secretly imprisoned by his bitter rival, the tyrannical governor Pizarro, who seeks to starve him to death in the deepest dungeon. Driven by unconditional love and unwavering courage, Florestano’s wife, Leonora, disguises herself as a young man named Fedelio to infiltrate the prison. She successfully gains the trust of the jailer Rocco and even attracts the affection of Rocco’s daughter, Marcellina. When Pizarro learns of an impending inspection by the minister, he decides to murder Florestano himself. Leonora helps dig her husband’s grave, but just as Pizarro raises his dagger, she bravely steps between them, threatening the tyrant with a pistol. At that exact moment, a trumpet signal announces the minister’s arrival, exposing the crimes, freeing the prisoners, and celebrating the triumph of marital love.
Cast and Creative Team of Leonora
Dramma semiserio in two acts
Libretto by Giovanni Schmidt
Lyric Opera Soloists of the Teatro alla Scala Academy
Orchestra and Chorus of Teatro alla Scala Academy
Teatro alla Scala New Production
Conductor • Roland Böer
Staging • Daniele Menghini
Booking Process
Music trip to Milan for 3 days / 2 nights with premium tickets for the opera “Leonora”. The highlight is a visit to the famous Teatro alla Scala on the second evening to experience a magnificent performance in a world-famous environment with global stars. You can select between Essential and Superior Package.
Each travel package will be composed according to your wishes. Follow the booking process:
Essential Package: Includes premium tickets, 4-star hotel accommodation in the city center, and breakfast.
Superior Package: Includes premium tickets, 4- or 5-star hotel accommodation, private city walking tour, aperitif with light dinner before the show, and a festive gourmet dinner.
Extend your journey into an unforgettable Italian experience: Beyond Milan and the enchanting Lombardy region with its sophisticated Northern Italian Lakes, we invite you to expand your travel package according to your desires.
We can seamlessly combine your visit to La Scala with additional performances at Italy’s most prestigious opera houses—such as the historic Teatro di San Carlo in Naples, the innovative Maggio Musicale Fiorentino in Florence, the elegant Teatro Regio in Turin, or the grand Teatro Massimo in Palermo. Enhance your trip further with a bespoke gourmet package featuring exclusive tastings and culinary discoveries across the country. Everything—including premium hotels, curated opera tickets, and private transfers—will be meticulously organized by us, completely tailored to your personal wishes.
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Discover Paër's rare masterpiece "Leonora" at La Scala. Staged by the Academy forces under Roland Böer and Abbiati-winner Daniele Menghini, this operatic gem beautifully illuminates the historical roots of Beethoven's "Fidelio."
Discover Paër's rare masterpiece "Leonora" at La Scala. Staged by the Academy forces under Roland Böer and Abbiati-winner Daniele Menghini, this operatic gem beautifully illuminates the historical roots of Beethoven's "Fidelio."
Discover Paër's rare masterpiece "Leonora" at La Scala. Staged by the Academy forces under Roland Böer and Abbiati-winner Daniele Menghini, this operatic gem beautifully illuminates the historical roots of Beethoven's "Fidelio."
Discover Paër's rare masterpiece "Leonora" at La Scala. Staged by the Academy forces under Roland Böer and Abbiati-winner Daniele Menghini, this operatic gem beautifully illuminates the historical roots of Beethoven's "Fidelio."
Discover Paër's rare masterpiece "Leonora" at La Scala. Staged by the Academy forces under Roland Böer and Abbiati-winner Daniele Menghini, this operatic gem beautifully illuminates the historical roots of Beethoven's "Fidelio."
Discover Paër's rare masterpiece "Leonora" at La Scala. Staged by the Academy forces under Roland Böer and Abbiati-winner Daniele Menghini, this operatic gem beautifully illuminates the historical roots of Beethoven's "Fidelio."
In Milan at Teatro alla Scala
