Characters
Consuelo
Consuelo (kohn-SWAY-loh) is a gifted singer who, before her mother's passing, promises to marry a young musician named Anzoleto. She is not only charming and beautiful but also an exceptionally talented artist. Upon discovering Anzoleto's betrayal, Consuelo becomes a companion to Amelia, the niece of Count Rudolstadt. Count Albert Rudolstadt, the count's son, falls deeply in love with her, believing she is the sole person capable of saving him from his descent into insanity. In an act of compassion, she assists her rival, Corilla, in giving birth to an illegitimate child fathered by Anzoleto. Consuelo marries Albert just before his death but refuses any inheritance that results from the marriage. Afterward, she moves to Berlin, where her singing captivates Frederick the Great, making her an idol in his court.
Niccolo Antonio Porpora
Niccolo Antonio Porpora (NEE-koh-loh ahn-TOH-nee-oh pohr-POH-rah) is both Consuelo’s music teacher and her godfather. With a singular focus on making her a celebrated artist, Porpora employs duplicity to keep Consuelo away from Count Albert until it is too late for her to intervene in his mental decline. Despite his manipulative tactics, Porpora's dedication to Consuelo's artistic development remains steadfast.
Count Albert Rudolstadt
Count Albert Rudolstadt, the nobleman’s son, is captivated by Consuelo from the first moment he hears her sing, inexplicably calling her by name despite not having been told her true identity. Convinced that Consuelo is his salvation from the impending curse of insanity, Albert's health deteriorates following Porpora's refusal to permit their marriage. In his final moments, Albert implores Consuelo to marry him, hoping it will bring peace to his tormented soul.
Anzoleto
Anzoleto (ahn-zoh-LEH-toh) is the impoverished young musician to whom Consuelo is betrothed. As Consuelo's fame surpasses his own, Anzoleto attempts to secure his position in the theater by feigning love for her rival, Corilla. Porpora's disdain for Anzoleto leads him to orchestrate a situation where Consuelo discovers him with Corilla. Anzoleto fathers Corilla’s child and ultimately fades into obscurity.
Count Rudolstadt
Count Rudolstadt, a nobleman from Bohemia, is Albert's father. Despite the unconventional circumstances, he consents to Consuelo's marriage to Albert, hoping it might save his son from his tormented mental state.
Corilla
Corilla (koh-REEL-lah) is a fellow singer and Consuelo’s rival in both the theatrical world and in Anzoleto's affections. Unaware of Consuelo's disguise as a boy, Corilla receives her help during the birth of her child with Anzoleto. This complex relationship adds tension to their interactions, both on and off the stage.
Joseph Haydn
Joseph Haydn is the renowned composer whom Consuelo encounters on her journey to Vienna. Seeing potential in him, she introduces him to Porpora, ensuring he receives the mentorship needed to cultivate his musical talents.
Amelia
Amelia, the niece of Count Rudolstadt, is initially betrothed to Albert. Her apprehensions about his rumored madness create a barrier to their union, yet she remains a pivotal figure in Consuelo’s life as a companion during tumultuous times.
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