La Traviata
by Guiseppe Verdi
Saturday, October 12, 1996
Tuesday, October 15, 1996
Performed in Italian with English surtitles
Memphis' own Kallen Esperian debuts in the title role of La Traviata, one of Verdi's best loved and most passionate operas. Set against the elegant backdrop of Paris, La Traviata was first performed in Venice in 1853. Violetta, the courtesan with the heart of gold, gives her life to save the reputation of the young Alfredo Germont. Directed by Michael McConnell, La Traviata features the memorable music of "Libiamo, libiamo", "Di Provenza il mar" and "Sempre libera". Willie Anthony Waters, a great favorite with local audiences, returns to conduct.
Synopsis
Verdi: Biography
Verdi: Works
Francesco Piave
Rhodes History of Opera Class Essays