La Traviata

In this their Centenary year Bristol Opera performed La Traviata (The Fallen Women) an Italian opera composed by Giuseppe Verdi with a libretto by Francesco Maria Piave. The opera is based on Alexandre Dumas' 1852 dramatisation of his 1848 novel La Dame aux camélias. It was first performed in Venice in 1853 and is the story of a tragic doomed love of a famed Parisian courtesan named Violetta Valéry who falls in love with a young nobleman, Alfredo Germont who has loved Violetta from afar, at one of her lavish parties in Paris.

Performed in English (translated by cast member Graham Billing), the usually 3 act opera was in this case performed in two acts, this worked quite well, however I feel maybe bringing the curtain in, for the longer scene changes and perhaps starting the entr’acte while these changes happened may have helped with the pace a little. The minimalistic set worked well though, with furniture and props used to indicate the setting, ensuring the focus was on the performance. Costumes were in keeping, I liked the symbolism of the black and red in the first Act, and the wide range of colourful costumes in the fancy dress party. The lighting effects were minimal and apart from the final dying sequence with a lovely “Bright Light” moment, I felt there was more potential to enhance the production from that point of view. Sound was clear as a whole. The orchestra were placed stage left on the stage, played beautifully, guided by Arne Kovac and the sound balance was good.

The performances were strong throughout, due to the vocal demands involved with the role it was double cast and on the Friday, Violetta’s expressive soprano voice along with strong acting skills conveyed the characters’ strength and her vulnerability throughout. Alfredo, Violetta's lover gave a passionate, strong performance, his voice blending beautifully with Violetta in their duets. Giorgio Germont, Alfredo’s Father demonstrated a complex and compelling character. All of the supporting roles were equally well portrayed ,sang well and suited their roles, along with a Chorus who provided a strong and cohesive performance, a rich, full sound that added depth to the production.

Congratulations to the whole Company, Committee, Cast, Crew and Front of House, and thank you for your hospitality, we were very well looked after.

These comments solely reflect the view of the Representative and can only relate to the performance seen.

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