La Traviata

May 3-17, $28-$83, various locations, 215-735-1685, avaopera.org.

by Peter Burwasser

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Published: Apr 29, 2008

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Giuseppe Verdi's 1853 La Traviata is his most popular opera, and one of the most popular in all of the repertoire. By contemporary standards, the libretto is hackneyed, and even a bit ridiculous, a sort of parody of the "boy meets girl, girl dies, boy cries" scenario. What catapults the opera to immortality is the astonishing deftness of Verdi's dramatic sensibility, matched only by Mozart in the genre. His characters are distinct and believable, fleshed out with depth and power. But what really makes La Traviata such a huge crowd-pleaser is Verdi's miraculous melodic gift. From the overture to the heart-wrenching final notes, the big, wonderful tunes just keep coming. The Academy of Vocal Arts can be counted on for excellent work on this warhorse, especially with ebullient music director Christofer Macatsoris in the pit, but be forewarned that Spruce Street performances have long been sold out, so check out the Bucks County, Haverford and Rutgers venues. Should be worth the trip.

May 3-17, $28-$83, various locations, 215-735-1685, avaopera.org.

 

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