La Traviata – Opera Australia Melbourne Season
Perhaps going with the maxim “if it aint broke, don’t fix it”, Opera Australia present yet another revival of Elijah Mojinsky’s 1994 production of La Traviata. It’s an attractive, solid version of Verdi’s most popular opera, and there is little to fault in this Melbourne production.
Presented by: Opera AustraliaVenue: State Theatre, Victorian Arts Centre Saturday, 19 November 20111
Perhaps going with the maxim “if it aint broke, don’t fix it”, Opera Australia present yet another revival of Elijah Mojinsky’s 1994 production of La Traviata. It’s an attractive, solid version of Verdi’s most popular opera, and there is little to fault in this Melbourne production.
In 19th century Paris the courtesan Violetta, recovering from tuberculosis, throws a lavish party. Violetta is “under the protection” of the Baron Duphol, but is introduced to an ardent admirer Alfredo, who convinces her to live a life of love rather than hedonism. She moves to the country with Alfredo, but their happiness is interrupted when Alfredo’s father Germont visits. Alfredo’s sister is unable to marry while he lives with a fallen woman: Germont convinces Violetta that she should leave the relationship, with tragic consequences.
For once, audiences have no reason to grumble about casting of the Melbourne season. In Traviata the major principals are all top rung, lead by Russian soprano Elvira Fatykhova, who first performed the marathon-length role of Violetta for OA in Sydney in 2010.
Fatykhova’s vivacious but sensitive acting makes her a very believable Violetta. Her lyric voice is surprisingly powerful in its coloratura, with a bright attractive tone and a ringing top register that carries over the orchestra. Matching her with fine acting and clear delivery, is tenor Aldo Di Toro (Alfredo), whose hurt and anger is palpable at the end of Act II. Again, not have a big voice, but Di Toro uses what he has intelligently – from sweet piano to emphatic forte when required.
Michael Lewis, world-famous for his interpretations of Verdi baritone roles, gives a sympathetic portrayal of the patriarch Germont, and Dominica Matthews sparkles as Flora. The Opera Australia chorus, crowded on the small set, sing and dance with confidence; and Orchestra Victoria, under Marko Letonja, play with warmth and expression.
La Traviata continues at the Arts centre until December 17, and will please opera stalwarts and newcomers alike.
Until 17 December www.opera-australia.org.au