La Traviata
Opera Australia
“What should I do? Plunge into the vortex of pleasure and drown there?” – Violetta
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Melbourne / Naarm
8 - 16 May 2026
Regent Theare
191 Collins St, Melbourne
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Duration
Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including one interval
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Ticket Price Range
From $79 + $9.80 booking fee
“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 a 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 “triumphant” (Sydney Morning Herald) new staging is making its Melbourne debut. Director Sarah Giles brings Violetta’s inner world centre stage in an acclaimed, glittering staging that shows the heartache behind the glamour.
Charles Davis’ set 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.
Stacey Alleaume and Samantha Clarke, two of Australia’s most celebrated young sopranos, offer their distinctive interpretations of Violetta. Rising star Filipe Manu makes his role debut as Alfredo, joining them under conductor Giampaolo Bisanti, who brings his renowned Italianate style to Australia for the first time.
Cast & Creatives
Conductor: Giampaolo Bisanti
Director: Sarah Giles
Set & Costume Designer: Charles Davis
Lighting Designer: Paul Jackson
Revival Director: Warwick Doddrell
Violetta Valéry
Stacey Alleaume (8, 10, 13 & 15 May)
Samantha Clarke (9, 12, 14, & 16 May)
Alfredo Germont
Filipe Manu (8, 10, 13 & 15 May)
Oreste Cosimo (9, 12, 14, & 16 May)
Giorgio Germont
Andrii Kymach (8, 10, 13 & 15 May)
Luke Gabbedy ( 9, 12, 14, & 16 May)
Flora Bervoix
Angela Hogan
Gastone
Iain Henderson
Baron Douphol
Richard Anderson
Marquis d’Obigny
Andrew Moran
Doctor Grenvil
Shane Lowrencev
Annina
Jane Ede
Giuseppe
Jin Tea Kim
Messenger
Jonathan McCauley
Servant
Malcolm Ede
Orchestra Victoria
Opera Australia Chorus
Trailer
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’).
ACT II, SCENE 1
Violetta’s home outside Paris
Three months later, Violetta and Alfredo are now living together in the countryside, madly in love – but at what cost? Violetta has been selling her belongings to pay their expenses. When Alfredo finds out, he’s wracked with guilt and leaves for Paris to organise money.
At the same time, Alfredo’s father, Giorgio Germont, visits Violetta to ask her to give up her relationship with Alfredo. He makes it clear that her involvement with Alfredo will be the undoing of the Germont family, threatening the daughter’s engagement.
Violetta agrees to sacrifice her happiness and departs for Paris, leaving a farewell message for Alfredo.
Returning to find Violetta gone, Alfredo is devastated. Despite his father’s attempts to console him, Alfredo leaves to confront the woman who has broken his heart.
ACT II, SCENE 2
Party at Flora’s home
Violetta arrives at an opulent party hosted by fellow courtesan Flora. Once more she is on the arm of the Baron. Alfredo is gambling.
Alfredo begins to insult the Baron, challenging him to a game of cards in which he fails to win a single hand. Violetta begs Alfredo to leave the party before the Baron seeks revenge, but Alfredo won’t leave without Violetta. Knowing the danger he faces, Violetta attempts to save Alfredo by declaring love for the Baron.
Wounded and humiliated, Alfredo retaliates by throwing money at Violetta’s feet – a payment for her services. Germont reproves his son for this behaviour.
ACT III
Violetta’s bedroom
The doctor has given Violetta just a few hours to live.
Violetta reflects on a letter from Germont telling her that the Baron was only wounded in his duel with Alfredo. Germont has revealed Violetta’s sacrifice to Alfredo, who – having fled the country – is returning to seek her forgiveness.
Alfredo hastens to her side, only to find her on the brink of death.
To comfort her, Alfredo talks of plans for a new life together away from Paris. Violetta’s last thoughts are of freedom, hope and love as she dies in Alfredo’s arms.