'La Traviata' comes to the University of St. Francis
The University of St. Francis brings the opera "La Traviata” to the greater Joliet/Will County area on Sunday, Jan. 21.
Lyric soprano Christine Steyer plays the title role in the opera “La Traviata” at the University of St. Francis on Sunday, Jan. 21. This opera, to be presented by Bellisssima Productions in an intimate chamber production with beautiful costumes and props, features lyric soprano Christine Steyer, winner of the 2006 National Opera Association Competition, in the title role.
The performance is at 2 p.m. in the university’s Moser Performing Arts Center auditorium, known for its excellent acoustics. Tickets are $12; $8 for students and senior citizens. For tickets or information, call (815) 740-3404.
This production of “La Traviata” is an adaptation of Giuseppe Verdi’s masterpiece, the story of the “fallen woman.” Although choruses and minor roles are not presented in this production, a skillful narration weaves together the solo and ensemble performances of the three lead singers, according to Clarice Hearne, professor of music at the University of St. Francis. The performance, accompanied by piano, is in Italian with text translations throughout, she noted.
“La Traviata,” set in 1850s Paris tells the love affair of Violetta and Alfredo, their breakup, reunion and final tragic ending.
Soprano Steyer as Violetta will be joined by tenor Franco Martorana, as Alfredo. Martorana is best known as a member of the acclaimed “The Other Three Tenors.” The cast is completed by bass-baritone Paul Geiger who plays Giorgio, Alfredo’s father. Geiger has performed with major opera companies throughout the United States and Europe. Award-winning pianist Eugenia Cheng will accompany.