Loading ...Opera on the James opened their fourth season with a performance of Verdi’s La Traviata on Saturday. This may have been the best OOTJ performance yet.
Director Craig Fields set the story in 1938 Hollywood, California, giving it a unique twist. Film clips and stills featuring leading ladies from the 1930′s appeared on screen behind the performers to set the scenes and tie the experiences of the opera’s Violetta with the similarly often difficult lives of the Hollywood stars. The effect was dramatic, unexpected and effective.
As Violetta, Penelope Shumate was extraordinary. It was baritone John Packard, however, who stole the show with his powerful performance as Giorgio Germont. His vocals in Act II were met with roars of applause and Bravos from the audience.
Opera on the James’ next event is their Opera Caberet fundraising gala on January 17, 2009. They will be performing Mozart’s Don Giovanni on April 3rd and 5th at the Academy.
