La Traviata is back! But not like you remember

Unveiling an exciting new chapter in opera, Opera Australia proudly presents the Sydney premiere of Sarah Giles’ lauded rendition of Verdi’s classic, La Traviata, on the 2nd of January at the iconic Sydney Opera House. This groundbreaking production, a collaboration between Opera Queensland, State Opera South Australia, and West Australian Opera, has been hailed as “an absolute triumph” by The AU Review and “audaciously new” by InReview. Giles’ innovative direction breathes new life into La Traviata, offering a nuanced female perspective and exploring the intricacies of the protagonist, Violetta’s, courtesan life. The set, designed by Charles Davis, artfully dissects the public and private facets of Violetta’s life. His costumes, meanwhile, brilliantly encapsulate the vibrant decadence of the party-laden world portrayed in La Traviata. For the first time, the illustrious Jessica Cottis will be at the helm of the Opera Australia Orchestra and the respected Opera Australia Chorus, guiding them through Verdi’s emotive score, that includes the famed ‘Brindisi’ and Violetta’s stirring ‘Sempre libera’. Samantha Clarke, the celebrated Australian soprano, will make her debut with Opera Australia, performing as Violetta from the 2nd of January to the 10th of February. This marks another significant milestone following an impressive series of debuts throughout 2023, including Carnegie Hall, West Australian Opera, and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. Australian-Chinese tenor Kang Wang will return as Alfredo, while New Zealand baritone Phillip Rhodes will make his debut as Giorgio Germont with Opera Australia. Beyond these dates, the rising star, Australian soprano Sophie Salvesani, will reprise her highly-acclaimed role as Violetta, with… Read More