JADAR

★★★☆☆

Written by Robert Gyorgyi

‘Mysterious, Exalted, Both Pain and Pleasure’ indeed encapsulates the La Traviata (Giuseppe Verdi) experience at Manchester Opera House, but it’s imperative to delve deeper into the challenges and highlights that defined this memorable evening.

Ellen Kent, the legendary director, offered candid insights during the first interval, her whiskey in hand, shedding light on the formidable obstacles they overcame. The bureaucratic labyrinth of securing visas for the primarily Ukrainian cast, compounded by the tumultuous Ukrainian-Russian conflict and the post-Brexit British Home Office, nearly jeopardised the show. Despite these Herculean hurdles, their unwavering determination triumphed, treating a packed Opera House to a night that will be etched in their memories for years to come.

However, let’s not sugarcoat the difficulties that marred this performance. The time constraints and minimal rehearsal time took their toll, with some noticeable imperfections. While Alyona Kistenyova showcased masterful technique and control, her rendition of Violetta’s iconic aria fell short of expectations. The audience, well-aware of her potential, felt a tinge of disappointment. Giorgi Meladze’s portrayal of Alfredo was marked by commendable acting, but even he couldn’t escape the shadow of last-minute replacements and limited preparation.

In contrast, Natalia Matveeva emerged as the shining star of the night, portraying Flora Bervoix. Her exceptional vocal range and captivating stage presence were undeniable, stealing the spotlight with every appearance. An unexpected surprise came from Marharyta Bohochova, cast as Annina, Violetta’s maid, whose limited singing time did not diminish her outstanding vocal performance. Her voice resonated through the Opera House, leaving an indelible mark on the audience.

While the stage design was well-thought-out, it left much to be desired in execution. One couldn’t help but wonder why a grand Italian palazzo served as the backdrop for Violetta’s Parisian salon, leaving a distinct incongruity. The repetitive backdrops across acts, with minimal changes save for a few additional flowers and chairs, felt uninspired and lacked the grandeur one would expect from an opera of this caliber.

The door-sized textile sheet in the background, though versatile, grew tiresome by Act 4. This aspect of the production, while functional, could have greatly benefited from more creativity and variety. The costumes, despite Kent’s pursuit of perfectionism, failed to leave a lasting impression, falling short of the grandeur one would expect. Perhaps a more ambitious approach to costume design could have elevated the overall experience.

La traviata, a timeless story originally inspired by Alexandre Dumas’ La Dame aux Camélias (1848), continues to resonate with audiences due to its exploration of love, sacrifice, and societal expectations, as it gave rise to such modern classics as the film Pretty Woman (1990) and the musical film Moulin Rouge! (2001). Giuseppe Verdi (1813-1901), a revolutionary composer, pushed the boundaries of opera, delving into human emotions in unprecedented ways, solidifying his legendary status. His groundbreaking compositions, both musically and thematically, continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

The Ukrainian Opera and Ballet Theatre Kyiv’s contribution to this production was significant; their dedication and skill are commendable. The predominantly Ukrainian cast brought a unique and authentic flavour to the performance, despite the immense challenges they faced. Their ability to adapt and shine under such pressure is testament to their professionalism and talent.

To conclude the evening on a patriotic note, as the curtains drew to a close, the cast surprised us with a heartfelt rendition of their national anthem. With the Ukrainian flag prominently displayed on stage, the entire cast came together, their voices harmonising in a powerful and moving performance of their homeland’s anthem in the midst of the war. It was a touching moment that resonated deeply with the audience, symbolising not only their dedication to the arts but also their unwavering pride in their Ukrainian heritage. This heartfelt display of national unity and pride added an extra layer of emotion to an already unforgettable night of music and passion.

In the midst of the breathtaking performance of La Traviata, we must address the unfortunate series of mishaps that unfolded within the very walls of the Opera House. These unanticipated errors, such as the curtains struggling to close properly, untimely lighting cues, cast members having to intermittently interrupt the show, and subtitles plagued with typos, marred what should have been a seamlessly immersive experience.

In an environment where precision and coordination are paramount, these technical glitches served as stark reminders that even the most meticulously planned productions can encounter unforeseen challenges. These lapses, while unfortunate, should serve as valuable lessons to the creative team and crew, emphasising the need for seamless execution to match the artistic excellence taking place on stage.

Despite these hiccups, the resilience of the cast and their ability to maintain the magic of the opera was a testament to their professionalism and dedication to their craft.

Kent’s enduring career, spanning thirty-one years in opera and ballet, speaks volumes about her unwavering passion and dedication to the arts. Her commitment to delivering world-class performances to audiences remains admirable.

On this particular night, she navigated numerous obstacles with grace and resilience, ensuring that the show went on despite the odds. In a touching tribute to Sam Shrouder, Kent’s friend and supporter, who played a crucial role in making her opera tours possible, this tour served as a heartfelt homage to his legacy.

Despite the minor glitches and unvarnished truths, this night ultimately celebrated the power of music and the dedication of those who bring it to life. It served as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the arts and the enduring connections it fosters among its practitioners and audiences alike.

Despite the bureaucratic hurdles, last-minute replacements, and technical glitches, the unwavering essence of creativity persevered, demonstrating that fervour and commitment can surmount any challenge. As the final notes reverberated through the Opera House, it became evident that the resolute human spirit, in harmony with the potency of music and narrative, had rekindled a profound rapport between the stage and the audience.

Ellen Kent and her gifted ensemble, along with their memorable performance, etched an enduring impression on this Manchester evening, reinforcing the timeless enchantment of the opera.

Ellen Kent is at Opera House Manchester for three days in total, with La Traviata (Verdi) opening the run last night, Carmen (Bizet) playing there tonight, and Madama Butterfly (Puccini) playing there tomorrow night. Ellen Kent tours the UK with this selection of shows until May 29.