Der Rosenkavalier (R. Strauss)

Although the eponymous character of today's opera is a young man, this opera is really about women. Not only is the role of Octavian (Der Rosenkavalier, played by Susan Graham) a trouser role, but the young courtier's love is split between two women, Therese (the older, more experienced Marchionesse played by Renee Fleming) and Sophie (a young woman about to be betrothed to an older count, played by Christine Schafer). Before the end of the first act, the Marchionesse realizes that her young lover will soon abandon her for a young wife. Dumping him him before he can abandon her, she sends Octavian away. A comic, not very interesting second act and the comic, not very interesting first half of the third act, follow. The final half of the third act--nearly four hours into the production--is worth the long wait, as Fleming, Graham, and Schafer trade solos, duets, and a glorious trio.

By pairing Graham and Fleming, this production further emphasizes the opera's interest in women.

Highly recommend.