La traviata

This La Traviata is an absolute dream. While I may prefer the Zeffirelli film, I do prefer Violetta here. La Traviata is one of my all-time favourite operas, I adore the music in it and the story and characters are timeless.

Visually this 1968 version is absolutely stunning. The costumes are colourful and pretty without being too fluttery, the sets are lavish and the photography is exquisite. The music is sublime and superbly performed and conducted, the story maintains its emotional punch and the direction is excellent.

Franco Bonisolli is a wholly adequate Alfredo, great voice if somewhat stolid sometimes in his acting. Gino Becchi is a suitably intelligent and sympathetic Germont and has shows some nice, distinguished singing. The best thing about this is Anna Moffo as Violetta, simply put she is one of the best Violettas I've seen, right from Brindisi up to the final scene she IS Violetta, her colouratura and range are wondrous, her acting is often heart breaking and she is also a very beautiful woman.

Overall, one of the best Violettas in one of the best Traviatas, in my opinion. 10/10 Bethany Cox