Opera in Williamsburg will bring a tragic classic to Williamsburg with its latest production, “La Traviata,” at the Kimball Theatre Sept. 12-16.
Giuseppe Verdi’s opera follows Violetta Valéry, a courtesan who finds herself falling in love and longing for a better life.
“This opera is a very tragic way to see the meaning of life,” said Won Whi Choi, who performs the role of Alfredo Germont. “It’s emotionally very challenging.”
The local opera company’s vision includes a unique twist: Haeran Hong and Choi, the lead performers taking on the roles of doomed lovers Violetta and Alfredo, are married in real life.
“This is something very special,” Choi said. “It’s a really rare chance for us to go really deep and connect the characters with our own life.”
He said the story aims to remind the audience that everyone makes mistakes, but it doesn’t mean your life is over.
“The story is very tragic and very dark, very deep,” Hong said. She added that although the music is sometimes lighter, it’s a new challenge. “This is my first Violetta, so musically I had to practice. I had to see in different ways.”
The production once again features a full orchestra. Music director Jorge Parodi lauded the “wonderful colors” of the opera’s music. Many of the singers have performed with the company in the past.
“It’s amazing. It’s a quality that you just don’t get to see in most places,” said Naama Zahavi-Ely, the opera’s founder and artistic director. “You have a superb group of singers. Every single one of them.”
Opera in Williamsburg is previewing “La Traviata” with a dinner concert at the Colonial Heritage Clubhouse Friday. The performers also offered a taste of what to expect with flash mob performances at the College of William and Mary bookstore and Sal’s by Victor Italian Restaurant.
“We really want to share it with as many people as possible,” Zahavi-Ely said.
Parodi is confident the group’s interpretation of the tragedy offers broad appeal.
“The storytelling is very cinematic, both musically and textually. It’s very easy to see if you’re not familiar with it,” he said. And for those already familiar: “It’s an amazing opportunity to hear these really, really international singers and these wonderful players.”
Want to go?
“La Traviata” runs Sept. 12-16 at the Kimball Theatre. Tickets are $52, $47 for seniors, military, first responders, teachers and college staff or $15 for students.
Friday’s dinner concert runs 6-9 p.m. Friday at Colonial Heritage Clubhouse, 6500 Arthur Hills Drive. Tickets are $52 including dinner or $25 for the concert only.
For tickets and more information, visit operainwilliamsburg.org.
