Performer: Vienna State Opera

It may be on its 663rd outing, but Margarethe Wallmann's Tosca is a classic for a reason, as proved in this outstanding performance at the Wiener Staatsoper. 

Norwegian soprano Lise Davidsen returns to Sven-Eric Bechtolf's lean but polished production with an outstanding cast, outstandingly conducted. 

At 70 years old, American tenor Gregory Kunde makes a magnificent role debut as Captain Vere, with a strong ensemble of singers, chorus, and orchestra in Willy Decker's effective production.

Take a guided tour in 3/4 time through Vienna as Mark and Elisabeth visit some of the key Strauss locations in the city. 

Soprano Elena Stikhina is in demand at the world's major opera houses. Isabella Steppan meets her in Salzburg to discuss the role of Tosca – which she is currently singing in Amsterdam and Vienna – and the reality of life as an opera singer.

“I don't fear anything!” Sonya Yoncheva discusses her career, from leaping from the Castel Sant’Angelo as Tosca to preparing a new Iolanta in Vienna, and setting up her own production company.