The first ever production at New York's Metropolitan Opera of Berlioz's most revolutionary opera - a colourful romp through the life and loves of Renaissance sculptor Benvenuto Cellini. Set in Italy, the story is an allegory on the power of art to conquer all. Presented by John Shea.
New York Metropolitan Opera Chorus and Orchestra, conductor by James LevineÂ

Act 1

8.05 Interval: The Met Opera Quiz
Steven Blier puts listeners' questions to Ben Cameron, Stuart Hamilton and Terrence McNally. Send questions to Met Opera Quiz, [address removed], or via the website: [web address removed].

8.20 Opera Snaps
Conductors Roger Norrington and John Eliot Gardiner explain why they regard Benvenuto Cellini as one of Berlioz's most vital and forward-looking scores, even though it was a failure at its premiere.

8.30 Act 2