By Jody Tuso-Key, Managing Editor

Photo Credit: Raftermen

Nothing beats a night at the opera and this year’s offerings at Atlanta Opera are not to be missed. For those of you who enjoyed the ATL Opera’s collaboration of FIDDLER ON THE ROOF with Alliance Theater, you will be happy to know that the second installment in the Opera’s stellar season is Guiseppe Verdi’s masterpiece, LA TRAVIATA, is now playing at the Cobb Energy Center; however, you only have two more chances to see the show, so after you read this KeyKwik review you need to get your tickets before this beautiful show sells out!

Personally, I like to give a hearty BRAVO to the entire cast and crew for their blood, sweat, and tears on this magnificent production. The stage pictures were stunning, the music and vocal performances were magnificent, and the story itself is timeless and universal. It’s no wonder this piece is still performed 173 years since its inception.

LA TRAVIATA is translated to English as ‘The Fallen Woman’ or ‘The Woman Who Goes Astray’. This story was originally set in France in the 1700’s, yet more modern versions are set in the 19th century. This is the story of Violetta Valéry, a carefree woman who prefers pleasure over love, and Alfredo Germont, a man of means who leads a toast to love. Alfredo and Violetta go on to fall in love and suffer a tumultuous relationship of separation and reconciliation. The story begins with Violetta in the hospital sick with consumption recalling her life. The action takes place in her memory. It ends with her and Antonio reconciling in the hospital before her passing. 

This is a great first opera to see for those who have never attended before, as well as a beautiful study in musicality and operatic technique for long-time enthusiasts. For me, the most amazing part of this particular performance is Mané Galoyan’s portrayal of Violetta. Galoyan is an extremely gifted Armenian Soprano; my personal measure of an amazing soprano voice isn’t the power that comes from the fortés, but the control needed during the moments of pianissimo. Galoyan’s voice during her character’s most vulnerable and quiet moments is as beautifully clear and thin as a golden thread. Her acting skills match her expert vocal abilities. I had the pleasure of talking to her manager, and he told me she just had a baby three months ago, which makes her performance even that much more impressive.

The rest of the cast is equally exquisite, especially the father/son duo of Long Long as Alfredo Germont and Anthony Clark Evans as Giorgio Germont. Both have clear and beautiful voices that fill the Cobb and delight the audience.

The performances are beautifully framed in an elaborate set (Peter J Davison) and stunningly tailored costumes (Jess Goldstein).  The frosting on this cake is the expert and flawlessly executed light design (Mark McCullough). Also, a big shout out to choreographer, Parker Esse. The dance numbers were vivacious and put a smile on my face.

We also had a seat behind the conductor, Evan Rogister, and enjoyed seeing all the energy he puts into his craft. The orchestra didn’t miss a note under his precise direction. 

In summation, this is a show you don’t want to miss!! Get your tickets today at atlantaopera.org 

Thanks for your readership and peace be with you!