La traviata
Welsh National Opera
Theatre Royal, Plymouth
Tuesday 5th June & Friday 18th June 2004
Traditionalists may be disappointed but I thoroughly approved of the modern setting and costumes.
Violetta is adored by millions and her face is on the cover of glossy mags. She lives life in the fast-lane, drinking, parties, lovers, taking everything to excess.....but ill health stalks her and will claim her. The traditional traviata, based on Dumas "La Dame aux Camelias" died of consumption but as Violetta finally lies in her clinical hospital bed hooked up to drips and monitors think AIDS or any one of the gamut of cancers that tragically ravish young lives. Designer Christian Fenouillats sets are modern and chic, like pages from a magazine in themselves.
Bold, solid red drapes flank the stage and move progressively centre stage for the hospital climax. He also weaves Camelias into the design to remind us of the operas origins. The costumes, by Agostina Cavalca, are funky stylish and look so much more comfortable for the cast rather than the traditional corsets and wigs (especially during this heatwave!).
Opera is about performance and of course the music but it why not feast the eyes as well. Verdis Mistress of Love and Death Tears were glistening in my eyes as Violetta dies in the arms of lover Alfredo. Nuccia Focile held us spellbound all evening as the doomed 'fallen woman' destined to die young but heroically - only a heart of stone could remained unmoved by her intense performance. The whole company were as usual first rate and all the soloists and the orchestra deserved their rapturous applause from a very satisfied audience. Full of familiar melodies La traviata is very easy to understand and excellent for those wanting to dip their toes into opera.
The modern setting should also encourage a younger audience and WNOs policy of reducing tickets will hopefully make big productions more accessible to everyone. 
La traviata
Welsh National Opera
Theatre Royal, Plymouth
Tuesday 5th June & Friday 18th June 2004
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