Love, passion, an overprotective father and a life cut short are the ingredients in Opera Queensland’s production of Verdi’s greatest romantic tragedy, La traviata at QPAC’s Lyric Theatre for four performances from 7 May.
Inspired by Alexandre Dumas’ romantic novel La dame aux Camélias, which is based on the life of famed French courtesan Marie Duplessis, new audiences will recognise La traviata’s tragic plot from Baz Luhrmann’s Moulin Rouge.
A co-production between New Zealand Opera, State Opera of South Australia and Opera Queensland, Kate Cherry’s acclaimed La traviata brings together some of Australia’s finest international artists including celebrated baritone Jonathan Summers, with Maestro Johannes Fritzsch conducting the combined forces of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra and the Opera Queensland Chorus.
Rising star Emma Pearson sings the role of Violetta, a coveted courtesan trapped in a life of pleasure for payment. When she unexpectedly falls in love with Alfredo (Aldo di Toro) their brief affair soars, only to be torn apart and ultimately end in Violetta’s death. Sumptuous staging, twinkling chandeliers, champagne-fuelled parties and costumes that would make Dior envious bring the extravagant characters and setting of high society Paris to vivid life.
“La traviata is the centerpiece of OperaQ’s 2015 season and this is a great opportunity for first-timers to experience grand opera,” says Lindy Hume, Artistic Director, Opera Queensland. “Audiences can expect sumptuous staging, some of opera’s most catchy arias and the country’s best singers. Come and discover why La traviata is the world’s most performed opera.”
Boasting some of opera’s most adored arias and stirring choruses, La traviata is Opera Queensland’s classical opera highlight for 2015. Come in the mood for champagne, but bring tissues for the ending…
La traviata
Lyric Theatre – Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), Southbank (Brisbane)
Season: 7 – 16 May 2015
Bookings: 13 62 46 or online at: www.qtix.com.au
For more information, visit: www.operaq2015.com.au for details.
Image: La traviata – courtesy of Opera Queensland