Traviata times two

The Israel Opera is opening its '05/'06 season with Franco Zefirelli's latest production of Verdi's La Traviata.

By HELEN KAYE
la traviata 88 (photo credit: )
la traviata 88
(photo credit: )
The Israel Opera is opening its '05/'06 season with Franco Zefirelli's acclaimed and latest production of Verdi's La Traviata. Zefirelli, now 82, who enchanted opera goers last season with Pagliacci and his own charismatic self, will return to direct and we can expect the usual huge cast, color and creative energy in spades. Romanian sopranos Elena Mosuc (who sang Gilda in Rigoletto with the IPO last year), and Nicoleta Ardelean share the role of Violetta, Mexican tenor Alfredo Portilla and his Italian counterpart Marco di Felice will split Alfredo while Australian baritone Jonathan Summers, who has sung the role in previous productions of the opera at the NIO, will sing Alfredo's father, Germont. Massimiliano Stefanelli with conduct the Israel Symphony Orchestra - Rishon Lezion. Performances run from November 25 through December 7 at the Tel Aviv performing Arts Center.