2008 Woodie Awards
'La Traviata' to be story of love, sacrifice
Pruitt, Susan
Issue date: 10/22/07 Section: Fine Arts
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This opera written by Giuseppe Verdi is set to an Italian libretto by Francesco Maria Piave. It is based upon the novel "La dame aux Camelias" by Alexandre Dumas. The title literally means "the woman who strayed." "La Traviata" is the story of Violetta Valery, a popular courtesan, who abandons her life and happiness for the man she loves.
The opera begins with a lavish party thrown by Violetta. At this party, Violetta meets Alfredo Germont. Alfredo is madly in love with Violetta and soon captivates her heart.
Months later, Violetta abandons her life to go and live with Alfredo in a quiet country home outside of Paris. Later, Alfredo's father persuade her to break off her relationship with Alfredo for the sake of the Germont family. Alfredo realizes that his father is the reason for Violetta's sudden change of sentiment.
Later at the party, a duel ensues between Alfredo and the man with Violetta. Violetta is encouraged to leave the party because of the ill effects the conflict has had on her health. In Violetta's bedroom, the doctor reveals that her illness has worsened. Alfredo's father soon realizes his mistake and pleads with Alfredo to return to Violetta. The lovers unite, but it is too late for them to leave together again; Violetta dies in Alfredo's arms.
Violetta will be played by Jane Redding. Redding, the renowned American soprano, who has performed various roles, including Musetta in "La Boheme" and Ophelia in "Hamlet." She has recently performed with the Charleston Symphony and will be performing with the Shanghai Opera Orchestra, Pensacola Opera, Virginia Opera and several others.
Alfredo will be played by Chad A. Johnson. Johnson began his career with the Chicago Opera Theater. He has been seen in a variety of roles, including Benvolio in "Romeo and Juliette," as well as performing as the featured soloist in Handel's "Messiah" and Mozart's "Coronation Mass." He will be performing with the Nashville Opera and the Lyric Opera San Diego, among others.
South Alabama's own Thomas Rowell will be performing the part of Gastone, Violetta's friend who introduces her to Alfredo. Senior voice student Andre Chiang will be performing with the chorus during this production.
"La Traviata" will be a wonderful performance filled with fantastic guest performers and familiar faces. This sacrificial love story is sure to tug at the strings of your heart and leave you captivated.
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