Fry has appeared in opera before with a part in a recording of the Richard Strauss opera Ariadne auf Naxos.

BBC: Stephen fry

After World War II she concentrated on singing, landing lead parts in Tosca and Ariadne auf Naxos with the New York City Opera.

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"First" isn't quite the word to describe the festival's new staging of "Ariadne auf Naxos, " but it just about sums up the novelty and allure of what will surely be remembered as one of this year's highlights.

WSJ: Review: A New-Look Ariadne Dazzles| 'Ariadne auf Naxos' |The Salzburg Festival