THE next in the 2016 – 17 Season of live satellite broadcasts from the Metropolitan Opera in New York direct to the Regent in Christchurch, brings to life one of opera’s greatest romantic tragedies.

Verdi’s masterpiece, La Traviata, is bursting with passion, drama and world famous melodies and can be seen on the big screen at the Regent on Saturday 11 March at 5.55pm.

The sumptuous production opens in the indulgent social whirl of contemporary Paris. Violetta, a beautiful courtesan, leads a life of glamour but darker undercurrents emerge after she meets the love of her life, Alfredo.

However, the young couple are forced apart when his father persuades Violetta to give up his son, because the on-going scandal is threatening Alfredo’s sister’s society wedding. It is only when Violetta falls dangerously ill that Alfredo discovers her great sacrifice. He rushes to her house to beg her forgiveness and swear his eternal love but is he too late…..?

Sonya Yoncheva sings one of opera’s most beloved heroines, the tragic courtesan, Violetta, a role in which she triumphed on the Met stage in 2015, opposite Michael Fabiano as her lover, Alfredo, and Thomas Hampson as his father, Giorgio Germont.

Verdi’s sensational score ranges from the jubilant with the world famous “Brindisi” the ‘toast’ of the party, to the heart breaking “Parigi, o cara” in which the lovers poignantly imagine a life that will never be theirs.

La Traviata premiered in Venice in 1853 and survived a notoriously unsuccessful opening night to become one of the best-loved operas in Verdi’s repertoire. Following on from his huge successes with Rigoletto and Il Trovatore, the intimate scope and subject matter of La Travata inspired Verdi to compose some of his most profound and heartfelt music. The title role of the “fallen woman” has captured the imaginations of audiences and performers ever since with its inexhaustible vocal and dramatic possibilities and challenges and Violetta is now considered a pinnacle of every soprano’s repertoire.

Boasting spectacular staging with stunning costumes, La Traviata will be conducted by San Francisco Opera’s Music Director, Nicola Luisotti.

Regent, Christchurch

01202 499199

wwwregentcentre.co.uk