Angela Meade Soars in "Ernani" at Ridgefield Playhouse

Hear four spectacular singers bring to life Verdi's opera "Ernani," a 16th century story of passion and intrigue among nobles, when the Met Live in HD production is broadcast at Ridgefield Playhouse on Feb. 25, at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. Based on a play by Victor Hugo, "Ernani's" ensemble of elegant singers includes American soprano Angela Meade who portrays the noblewoman Elvira. Marcello Giordani takes on the title role as the noble outlaw who loves her. Dmitri Hvorostovsky plays Don Carlo, the King of Spain, who also seeks Elvira’s hand, and Ferruccio Furlanetto is de Silva, a wealthy relative who plans to marry Elvira.

As the much-praised Angela Meade told the Metropolitan Opera's website, "I love to play strong characters, and I love that Elvira is not this weeping willow in the corner ...She’s defiant and she knows what she wants, and she’s not willing to just take whatever is handed to her on a plate. I really love her music, her aria especially—which you come in and sing right off the bat. It’s a great way to start the evening."

The New York Times said as Elvira, ("Meade's) voice is plush and penetrating, though the power comes effortlessly from the body and richness of her sound. Her top notes soared over the orchestra. Yet just as impressive were her finespun pianissimo phrases." Watch these powerhouse singers electrify The Met Opera's lush production, broadcast live in HD at Ridgefield Playhouse. Tickets are $20 and $25. For more information, visit The Playhouse's website.