A touring production of Verdi’s La Traviata has arrived at Manchester Opera House, presenting a traditional interpretation of the 19th century opera with an international cast.
The production, directed by Ellen Kent, forms part of a wider UK tour and features performers from Opera International, Kyiv. Sung in Italian with English surtitles prepared by Mariia Maliuta, the staging follows the original narrative based on Alexandre Dumas the Younger’s story of a courtesan and a doomed relationship.
The opera centres on Violetta, performed by Viktoria Melnyk, and her relationship with Alfredo Germont, played by Hovhannes Andreasyan. The story traces their time together in Paris and the countryside, alongside the intervention of Alfredo’s father Giorgio, portrayed by Iurie Gisca.
Performances in Manchester included large ensemble scenes, with the chorus appearing under the direction of Victor Donos. Musical accompaniment was provided by the Orchestra of the Opera International, Kyiv, conducted by Vasyl Vasylenko.
Set design and staging reflected a traditional approach, with period style costumes, painted backdrops and detailed props used to depict locations including Parisian salons and private residences. Lighting design by Valeriu Cucarschi was used to transition between scenes.
The score includes a number of well known arias and duets, including Sempre libera and Parigi, o cara, which were performed as part of the production’s three act structure.
The Manchester performances form part of Ellen Kent’s ongoing farewell tour, which also includes productions of Carmen and Madama Butterfly tonight and tomorrow, Thursday 26 March.
La Traviata continues its UK run with further dates scheduled as part of the Ellen Kent: The Farewell Tour.
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