La Traviata Sings Sydney’s Praises

WHEN it comes to staging events, Sydney knows how to turn it on and they certainly did on Saturday night when Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour - La Traviata, burst into life - its spectacular backdrop, the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House.

Even if you have no particularlove for opera, this tragic love story and its glorious Verdi arias is as spellbinding visually as it is a feast for the ears.

An $11.5m production, it is being staged for three weeks only until 15 April, at Mrs Macquarie’s Point, Royal Botanic Gardens.

Monumental in its staging and effects (singers arrive by bud-lit boats) it features a full orchestra,
magnificent sets and stunning 1950’s costumes.Dazzling effects include a 9-metre chandelier sparkling with Swarovski crystals, suspended above the purpose-built stage and a dazzling fireworks display organised by pyrotechnician, Fortunato Foti responsible for Sydney’s New Years Eve.