‘Faust’ by Charles Gounod from the Bavarian State Opera in Munich

This Saturday at 1 p.m., WHRO-FM brings you a timeless dramatic masterpiece; one of the most frequently performed operas in the world, Charles Gounod's “Faust.”
This beloved opera has captivated audiences since its Paris premiere in 1859. Inspired by Goethe's legendary drama, it tells the story of ambition, temptation, love and redemption with unforgettable melodies and spectacular choral scenes. The story follows the aging scholar Faust, who makes a pact with the Devil, Méphistophélès, in exchange for youth. His passionate love for the innocent Marguerite ultimately leads to tragedy, while the opera's final moments affirm the power of forgiveness and salvation. Jonathan Tetelman brings his brilliant, heroic tenor to the title role, while Kyle Ketelsen's dark bass-baritone makes a charismatic and sinister Méphistophélès. Olga Kulchynska's luminous lyric soprano perfectly suits the innocence and emotion of Marguerite, while Florian Sempey's rich baritone gives nobility and strength to Valentin. Emily Sierra, Thomas Mole and Dshamilja Kaiser complete the cast. Gounod's music combines lyrical elegance with dramatic intensity, moving from intimate love scenes to grand choruses and dazzling orchestral colors. French conductor Nathalie Stutzmann leads the Bavarian State Orchestra with refinement and energy, bringing out both the richness of the score and the distinctive elegance of the French Romantic style.
Don’t miss Charles Gounod’s “Faust,” in a performance filled with emotion, drama, and beauty. Tune in to WHRO-FM 90.3, or listen online via our Media Player, this Saturday at 1:00 p.m.