April 20 — On This Day in Opera

The premiere of Francesco Cavalli's opera "L'Orione" took place in Venice, contributing to the development of early Venetian opera.

Birth of English soprano Anna Maria Crouch in London. Debuted as Mandane in Arne's 'Artaxerxes' (1780) and created roles in several Stephen Storace operas.

The premiere of Ludwig van Beethoven's revision of "Fidelio" (final version) took place in Vienna, establishing the opera in its definitive form.

Opening of Chicago's Crosby Opera House, a major cultural venue in the city.

Death of German composer Carl Loewe at age 72 in Kiel. Known for his ballads and contributions to German Romantic music.

Birth of Italian bass Virgilio Lazzari in Assisi. Debuted as Alvise in Ponchielli's 'La Gioconda' (1914) and performed at the Metropolitan Opera for 14 seasons.

Austrian conductor Karl Böhm, later renowned for his interpretations of Mozart and Richard Strauss operas, was born in Graz.

Spanish soprano Conchita Supervía, noted for her roles in operas by Rossini and Bizet, was born in Barcelona.

Birth of German baritone Josef Herrmann in Darmstadt. Debuted in 1925 and performed in the premiere of Sutermeister's 'Zauberinsel'.

Premiere of Camille Erlanger's opera 'Le Fils de l'étoile' in Paris, featuring Jean-François Delmas.

Birth of Ukrainian tenor Georgi Nelepp in Bobruiky. Debuted in 1930 and was known for his powerful voice and dramatic interpretations.

Italian tenor Beniamino Gigli gave a notable performance in "Andrea Chénier" at the Metropolitan Opera during his celebrated career.