This event has finished. See what's on.

Venue

Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House
Bennelong Point, Sydney

Language

Sung in Italian with English surtitles

Running Time

Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including one interval.

Please note

This production contains adult content including sexual themes and implied violence.

Book a multi-show package and save up to 20%*

Combine this production with one or more shows in the 2024 Season and become a Season Subscriber. You’ll unlock a ticket discount, priority booking, and free ticket exchanges, among other exclusive benefits.

Subscribe now

“What should I do? Plunge into the vortex of pleasure and drown there?” – Violetta

Violetta is a coveted courtesan, the toast of Paris, desired by many. When she meets the ardent Alfredo, her life changes forever and she longs to break free of her past. But can she? Who is this woman beyond the sparkling salon? This fresh production of an opera classic invites new questions.

From the vivacious chorus of the famous ‘Brindisi’ to Violetta’s soaring ‘Sempre libera’ and the breathless notes at the opera’s tragic end, Verdi’s music for La Traviata is a thrilling, emotional experience.

This new production has been called “an absolute triumph” (The AU Review). Director Sarah Giles brings Violetta’s inner world centre stage in a glittering production that shows the heartache behind the glamour is but a heartbeat away.

Charles Davis’ set design highlights Violetta’s private turmoil, even in the midst of spectacular crowd scenes. His stunning gowns reflect the silhouettes of the Victorian era, with all the fun of 20th century couture.

This La Traviata brings home Australians currently dazzling on the international stage. Conductor Jessica Cottis makes her Opera Australia debut with an exciting cast. Soprano Samantha Clarke reprises her sublime performance in the title role, tenor Kang Wang is back to thrill Australian audiences as Alfredo and New Zealand baritone Phillip Rhodes makes his Opera Australia debut as Giorgio Germont.

“A triumphant ‘new’ La Traviata. ★★★★½”

Sydney Morning Herald

Trailer

The Music

Cast & Creative

Conductor
Jessica Cottis (2 Jan–3 Feb)
Paul Fitzsimon (10 Feb–16 Mar)
Director
Set and Costume Designer
Lighting Designer
Revival Choreographer
Allie Graham
Intimacy Coordinator
Assistant Director
Violetta Valéry
Samantha Clarke (2 Jan–10 Feb)
Sophie Salvesani (22 Feb–16 Mar)
Alfredo Germont
Kang Wang (2 Jan–10 Feb)
Tomas Dalton (22 Feb–16 Mar)
Giorgio Germont
Phillip Rhodes (2 Jan–10 Feb)
Luke Gabbedy (22 Feb–16 Mar)
Flora Bervoix
Gastone
Baron Douphol
Marquis d’Obigny
Doctor Grenvil
Annina
Giuseppe
Messenger
Servant

Opera Australia Dancers
Opera Australia Orchestra
Opera Australia Chorus

La Traviata at Sydney Opera House (2024)

Photographer: Keith Saunders

La Traviata at Lyric Theatre, QPAC (2022)

Photographer: Jade Ferguson, Visual Poets Society

La Traviata at Sydney Opera House (2024)

Photographer: Keith Saunders

La Traviata at Sydney Opera House (2024)

Photographer: Keith Saunders

La Traviata at Sydney Opera House (2024)

Photographer: Keith Saunders

La Traviata at Sydney Opera House (2024)

Photographer: Keith Saunders


Cheat Sheet: La Traviata

Everything you need to know about the world's most-performed opera.

What happens in the story? Who was the composer? What should I expect from the music? Here’s everything you need to know…

Read the cheat sheet

Page to Stage: La Traviata

See how Charles Davis’ beautiful designs made their way from design sketch and render to the stage.

Find out more

Finding Violetta

Director Sarah Giles’ production discovers a sometimes-neglected side to one of opera’s greatest roles.

Find out more

Essay: A timeless drama written in haste

How Verdi used some of operas most recognisable conventions to create a new kind of masterpiece in La Traviata.

Find out more
Overture Dining at the Sydney Opera House

Enjoy dinner before the opera

Overture Dining at Sydney Opera House

Allow us to make your dinner reservation for you: at Overture Dining in the Northern Foyer of the Joan Sutherland Theatre. You’ll be served a three-course menu for just $97.

See the menu

Synopsis

ACT I

Violetta’s Paris salon

Violetta is unwell. After spending time in a sanatorium to treat her tuberculosis, the notorious courtesan marks her return to Paris with a lavish party, entering on the arm of her current lover, Baron Douphol.

Alfredo has wanted to meet Violetta for some time. He is introduced to her by his confidant Gastone. She convinces Alfredo to sing a drinking song. He toasts to love; she toasts to freedom.

As the guests make their way to the ballroom, Alfredo confesses his love for her and Violetta considers if a life with financial security is worth sacrificing for true love (‘Sempre libera’).

Read More