La Traviata – ASB Theatre

Popular opera, Verdi’s La Traviata is NZ Opera’s latest production at ASB Theatre in Auckland.

This is a well known story of the beautiful but frail courtesan, Violetta Valéry, and her love affair with Alfredo Germont, a young nobleman. After starting a new life with her love his father, Giorgio Germont demands she breaks off the relationship, telling her that she is bringing disrepute on his daughter’s impending marriage. She reluctantly sacrifices her happiness, and in classic opera style there can only be tragedy ahead.

 

La Traviata - Neil MackenzieLorina Gore and Samuel Sakker in NZ Opera’s La Traviate – Photo: Neil Mackenzie

This moving story is beautifully performed by the hugely talented cast. Lorina Gore is truly wonderful as Violetta, both in her vocal excellence and emotional connections. Samuel Sakker as Alfredo is a hero and a villain, but the highlight was definitely the famous drinking song Libiamo ne’ lieti calici . He is a strong male lead who pursued this demanding role with gusto. I also really enjoyed David Stephenson  as Alfredo’s father Giorgio. The supporting cast are phenomenal, and the decadence and opulence of the show allows for some wonderfully OTT opera moments. 

As always the set was awe-inspiring. Huge chandeliers were used to describe both riches and modesty in various scenes meaning that I feared for shattering glass via Lorina’s fantastic high notes throughout the show! A cube is used as a stage within a stage ,and the focal point for most of the activity. It’s cleverly clad with material that is both reflective and transparent; this allowed for some visually spectacular moments during the performance. The costumes were classic with a modern twist, with the most vibrant of which were seen on a group of Matadores, who sang of their virility.

NZ Opera always produce high class work and what I enjoy the most about their productions is that they cater for all the senses. Along with Verdi’s beautiful music, every part of this production is crisp, clean, stylish and lavish.

This extravagant production gives you everything you would want for a night at the opera.

La Traviata is at ASB Theatre until 29 June.

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