Last Day for Pittsburgh Opera’s ‘La Traviata’ at The Benedum (Sun., 3/24/24)

LA TRAVIATA (opera) by Giuseppi Verdi, presented by Pittsburgh Opera.

Violetta Valéry (Vuvu Mpofu), Alfredo Germont (Duke Kim)and the party guests make a toast to the sweetness of love. (Photo: David Bachman Photography for Pittsburgh Opera)

For Pittsburgh audiences who may not have yet experienced great opera, La Traviata ranks among the most popular works to convert new fans. And, unlike many other classics, La Traviata has a simple plot and few characters to follow, a sometimes arduous task when the lyrics are all in Italian. Violetta Valéry is the central character, a “fallen woman” to her family’s social circle, but a high-spirited and beloved joy in the world of the rich and decadent. She is courted by Alfredo Germont whose father fears the worst for his son—not to mention a daughter soon to be wed—and tries his best to sabotage their romance. Yet, Violetta and Alfredo affirm their “match made in heaven,” until Violetta is forced to return to her more humble roots. Ill deeds and ill health have caused pains that may never heal. Indeed, La Traviata is a tragedy of epic and eloquent proportions. Pittsburgh Opera features soprano Vuvu Mpofu and tenor Duke Kim in the lead roles performing under the direction of Conductor Antony Walker and Stage Director Kristine McIntyre. 2 p.m., pre opera talk at 1 p.m. Benedum Center, 237 7th St., Cultural District. (C.P.O.)

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