Who's Afraid of Opera?
Season 1
Created by: Nathan Kroll, Larry Berthelson
Network: PBS
Season aired: 1972-04-09
Overview
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.
Episodes · 8
Rossini's The Barber of Seville
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!
Donizetti's The Daughter of the Regiment
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.
Donizetti's Lucia di Lammermoor
As Lucy in Lucia, betrayed by her own brother, Sutherland’s a tragic heroine indeed!
Offenbach's La Perichole
As the title character in La Perichole, Joan displays her lively flair for comedy as well as her amazing vocal abilities.
Verdi's La Traviata
As Violetta in La Traviata, Sutherland’s a beautiful Paris courtesan in love with a penniless young man.
Gounod's Faust
As Marguerite in Faust, Sutherland loves a man who has sold his soul to the devil for youth and pleasure.
Verdi's Rigoletto
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.
Thomas's Mignon
In the comic opera Mignon, Joan portrays the exuberant Philine, whose affections are much sought after.
