ABOUT "LA TRAVIATA:"
The last of the three great operas of Giuseppe Verdi's middle period, “La Traviata” is now one of his most popular works. Written for the Teatro la Fenice in Venice, it was first heard on March 6, 1853. The libretto, by Francesco Maria Piave, details the ill-fated love affair between a young gentleman named Alfredo Germont and a terminally ill courtesan named Violetta. It is based on the novel “La dame aux Camélias” by Alexandre Dumas, published in 1848. The title "La Traviata" means literally The Woman Who Strayed, or perhaps more figuratively, The Fallen Woman.
Verdi's use of traditional forms in combination with a new dramatic conviction would lead to the more dramatic style of his later operas. This delicate blend of old and new styles is perhaps what has kept “La Traviata” ever fresh and appealing in modern opera houses.
ABOUT TEATRO LIRICO D'EUROPA: "A lush spectacle of 19th century drama that dazzled the ear and eye..." The Daily Journal “No wonder audiences love this company!” - Boston Globe
Teatro Lirico D’Europa was born in 1988, the brainchild of former ballet star Yves Josse and opera singer Giorgio Lalov. They toured Europe for seven years to great critical success, later setting their sights on touring the company in America. Winter 2000 saw the first major American tour, and the company has been thrilling audiences from Boston to Beaver Creek ever since. Past VPAC appearances include “La Traviata,” “La Bohème,” “Carmen,” “Tosca” and “Aida.”
Tickets for “La Traviata” are $65/75. Tickets are available online, by phone at 888.920.ARTS(2787) or in person at the VPAC Box Office in Beaver Creek.
OPERA 101: Wednesday, February 17, 2010 6:30pm
Join Executive Director Kris Sabel for a complimentary evening offering discussion and introduction to both operas being performed by Teatro Lirico D’Europa, hosted at the VPAC. The session will provide insight into and enhanced appreciation for the two opera performances that follow.
