Opera Omaha has proven once again theirbrability to produce breathtaking masterpieces. La traviata (translated tobr“the fallen woman” in English), Giuseppe Verdi’s most famous work, was executedbrbeautifully by Omaha’s professional opera company. This tragic story of lovebrand heartbreak is a classic one, yet stands out amongst all the romances thatbrstereotype the genre.
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Soprano Adriana Chuchman leads this talentedbrcast of characters as Violetta Valéry, the titular “fallen woman” of the story.brChuchman’s gorgeous vocals blend with those of Brian Vu’s (Alfredo Germont)brtenor, creating soaring duets that could make even the iciest heart melt. BaritonebrHyung Yun enters as Giorgio Germont to introduce the main wrench in the plot, addingbra rich timbre to the cast. Minor characters and ensemble members complete thisbrbeautiful amalgamation of voices that stands against a backdrop of scene-appropriatebrcolor and well-placed sets.
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The recurring waltzes, uncommon in the genrebrin Verdi’s time, climax with the performance of the “travelers from afar.” In Flora’sbrparty scene, flooded with reds and purples, the story of a matador is conveyed bybra graceful ballerina in traditional bullfighting dress, adding an interestingbrspice to the narrative and choreography.
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Opera Omaha’s incredible symphony orchestra flawlesslybrfollows Verdi’s musical construction and brings the show to life with swelling timpanibrand strings that hold the breath of the audience in suspense, in joy, and inbrsorrow.
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Chuchman skillfully and dramatically performsbrVioletta’s last lines of libretto, which have haunted audiences’ consciousness forbrcenturies, and will continue to do so as long as Verdi’s opus is performed.
