Giovanna d'Arco (Joan of Arc) may not be one of Verdi's best known operas, but the story of the 15th-century heroine burned at the stake has captured imaginations ever since her martyrdom. Lisa Simeone hosts this broadcast of La Scala's opening night performance of the work, which received its premiere at the venerable opera house in 1845.
Star soprano Anna Netrebko sings the title role of Joan, and she is joined by tenor Francesco Meli as Carlo, the king of France, and baritone Devid Cecconi as Joan's father Giacomo. Riccardo Chailly conducts the performance.
World of Opera airs Thursdays at 4 pm, Saturdays at 5 pm and Sundays at 1 pm on the Operavore stream.
Cast:
Giovanna (Joan of Arc): Anna Netrebko (soprano)
Carlo, King of France: Francesco Meli (tenor)
Giacomo: Devid Cecconi (baritone)
Talbot: Dmitry Beloselskiy (bass)
Delil: Michele Mauro (tenor)
La Scala Orchestra and Chorus
Riccardo Chailly, conductor