La Traviata Opening Night

I was thrilled to visit the iconic Grand Opera House recently as it premiered its first opera since the theatre’s impressive renovation. And Giuseppe Verdi’s ‘La Traviata’ - which translates to ‘The Lost One’ - was a truly spectacular opera to return with. This popular masterpiece, which was interpreted by the magnificent Northern Ireland Opera, saw the première evening being performed to a sell out crowd (including comedian Tim McGarry, and Head of Music of Arts Council of NI Ciaran Scullion).

The evening opened with a few words of welcome from director Cameron Menzies before the beautiful auditorium filled with the glorious opening notes of the ‘La Traviata’. From that moment, the audience were spellbound as the tragic and melancholic tale of Violetta Valéry was played out on the stage.

‘La Traviata’, which was composed by Verdi in 1853, has stood the test of time and remains a poignant and powerful piece of opera. Violetta Valéry is renowned and desired throughout the highest social circles in Paris. Although she tries to dissuade the obvious affections of Alfredo Germont she loves him unconditionally. However, outside forces and ill health conspire to keep the two apart with Violetta making the ultimate sacrifice for Alfredo even though it brings her unbearable suffering.

This incarnation of the infinitely sad ‘La Traviata’ was truly beautiful. Performed in Italian with English subtitles, the action on stage effortlessly transported you from modern-day Belfast to the heart of Parisian aristocracy. Although I was not familiar with the story before attending, I was utterly captivated by every aspect of the production, from the impassioned performances and the stunning music (conducted by Rebecca

Lang) to the mesmerising choreography (created by Isabel Baquero), the commanding and versatile set design (by Niall McKeever), not to mention elegant couture gowns (designed by Linda Britten). Whilst the supporting cast were enthralling, the two leads - the spectacularly talented Siobhan Stagg (as Violetta Valéry) and Noah Stewart (Alfredo Garmont) - were absolutely masterful and fully commanded the stage whilst their voices were truly hypnotic.

Cameron Menzies’ vision for ‘La Traviata’ was imaginative and accomplished and the result is an emotive production which is rooted with honesty, rich in turmoil and passion, and alternates from exploring the strength and vulnerability of a perfectly unforgettable female protagonist.

The première of ‘La Traviata’ took place on 10 September and ran at the Grand Opera House until 17 September.