Who's Afraid of Opera?

Who's Afraid of Opera?

Three zany puppets bring to life our greatest opera treasures, as Joan Sutherland, the world’s most famous soprano, performs their highlights. The puppets make up the audience: Sir William, a wise old goat; Little Billy, his nephew; and Rudi, a rather boisterous lion. Sutherland first introduces them to the story of each opera. Then, backed by the London Symphony Orchestra and a first-rate cast, she moves onto the opera stage, complete with elaborate sets and elegant costumes. After each exquisite aria, the diva comes back to her inquisitive friends and unfolds the plot.

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Seasons

1. Rossini's The Barber of Seville

Air Date: 1972-04-09

As Rosina in The Barber of Seville, Joan’s the rich and elegant ward of a strict guardian. When Figaro, the noisy barber, butts into her love life, all fun breaks loose!

2. Donizetti's The Daughter of the Regiment

Air Date: 1972-04-16

As Marie, found as an infant on the battlefield and adopted by a whole regiment of adoring fathers, Joan falls in love with the brave Tonio.

3. Donizetti's Lucia di Lammermoor

Air Date: 1973-02-11

As Lucy in Lucia, betrayed by her own brother, Sutherland’s a tragic heroine indeed!

4. Offenbach's La Perichole

Air Date: 1973-02-18

As the title character in La Perichole, Joan displays her lively flair for comedy as well as her amazing vocal abilities.

5. Verdi's La Traviata

Air Date: 1973-04-22

As Violetta in La Traviata, Sutherland’s a beautiful Paris courtesan in love with a penniless young man.

6. Gounod's Faust

Air Date: 1973-04-29

As Marguerite in Faust, Sutherland loves a man who has sold his soul to the devil for youth and pleasure.

7. Verdi's Rigoletto

Air Date: 1973-12-09

In Rigoletto as Gilda, she is in love with the flirtatious and corrupt Duke of Mantua to the despair of her father, the court jester.

8. Thomas's Mignon

Air Date: 1973-12-16

In the comic opera Mignon, Joan portrays the exuberant Philine, whose affections are much sought after.

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Rating

0.0/10

Release Date

1972-04-09

Episodes

8 (1 seasons)

Status

Ended

Cast

Production Companies

PBS

PBS