The Marriage of Figaro

Opera buffa in four acts (1786) by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart with text by Lorenzo Da Ponte based on Pierre Augustin Caron de Beaumarchais Figaro, once the 'Barber of Seville', has advanced to become the chamberlady of Count Almaviva. The position at the castle has led him to become acquainted with Susanna, the chambermaid of the countess, who is beautiful. They have fallen in love and wish to marry. However, the count, who has also cast an eye on Susanna, attempts to prevent the wedding by all means. During a vacation of the court society at a villa by the sea, during the summer season, intrigues and counter-intrigues unfold on a truly 'Wonderful Day', old accounts are settled and new alliances forged, with surprising twists, chaos and anarchy also having their place as well as moments that restore order. Figaro measures out the room he is to share with Susanna. His bride points out that the room is arranged so that the servants can quickly reach their masters, but the count can also quickly reach Susanna. For some time now, he has been pursuing her and is determined to win her over. Figaro, however, intends to thwart the plans of the count. Danger threatens not only from the count, but also from other sides. Marcellina reminds him of a marriage promise he made to her in exchange for a loan at an earlier time. The doctor Bartolo, still bitter about an old story, swears revenge on him. Susanna, however, is not impressed by Marcellina's behavior. Page Cherubino is smitten with all the women in the house. He asks Susanna for help as the count has dismissed him and sent him to the military. When the count enters Susanna's room, he hides. The count, who has repeatedly harassed Susanna, hides from Music Teacher Basilio, but soon reprimands him for spreading rumors maliciously. The count finds the page, as it has already happened recently in Barbarina's room. He orders his immediate departure to the regiment. At the head of a group of peasants and farmers appears Figaro, seeking permission for his wedding.