Handel Opera Cycle - Rodelinda - Rodelinda, Acts 1 and 2

As part of BBC Radio 3's complete cycle of Handel operas, Louise Fryer presents a performance of Rodelinda, a rare opera about married - rather than illicit - love. It has parallels with Beethoven's Fidelio, as a faithful wife fights to save her beloved husband. At first, Rodelinda even thinks her Bertarido is dead - he is the rightful King of Lombardy, driven from his throne by the usurper Grimoaldo. Their struggle to find each other and overcome the tyrant is dramatised in arguably some of Handel's most beautiful music. Including contributions from novelist Donna Leon, a particular enthusiast for the opera, who has a special role in this performance. Handel: Rodelinda (Acts 1 and 2) Rodelinda ...... Simone Kermes (soprano) Bertarido ...... Marijana Mijanovic (contralto) Grimoaldo ...... Steve Davislim (tenor) Eduige, Bertarido's sister ...... Sonia Prina (contralto) Unulfo, Bertarido's lieutenant ...... Marie-Nicole Lemieux (contralto) Garibaldo, a nasty piece of work ...... Vito Priante (baritone) Il Complesso Barocco Alan Curtis (conductor).