LA TRAVIATA – THE BAREFOOT OPERA COMPANY, GRIMEBORN OPERA FESTIVAL AT THE ARCOLA THEATRE

By Emma Carney | Bunny Pudding · Digital Coven · @bunnyscopes ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Press Invite

You don’t realise it but you will most likely have heard some of the score of La Traviata as it happens to be the most watched Opera in the world, and was also THE opera that Edward took Vivian to see in the erm…romantic (?) epic that is the film Pretty Woman. Yes, La Traviata was the Opera that excited Julia Roberts’ character so much that it metaphorically made her ‘Pee her pants’. No, dear reader, whilst the opera didn’t make me pee my pants, I can completely understand her excitement as it was truly a heart wrenching performance of a well beloved classic Opera. 

La Traviata is not just a story of love and tragedy but a journey through raw human emotions, all beautifully expressed through Verdi’s iconic score. The Barefoot Opera Company’s minimalist approach, focusing more on vocal prowess than lavish production elements, allowed the raw power of the music and performances to shine through without distractions. When I say pulled back, I really do mean that – the costumes and props are very much not the focus here, it’s all about those vocals, baby and we aren’t disappointed! The second Barefoot Opera show that I’d seen after the comedic, feminist horror delight that was Der Vampyr earlier in the summer, which I also loved. I’m super excited to see more from this company. 

Tylor Lamani, in the role of Alfredo Germont, brought both passion and vulnerability to his performance, capturing the essence of a man torn between love and family duty. His chemistry with Beren Kader Fidan was endearing and believable, making the heartache of their story all the more moving. Speaking of Beren Kader Fidan, from the moment that she came on stage, I was completely entranced by the Soprano. It’s not often that I am so excited by a performer that I immediately upon coming home search for their socials but her performance was so good, that I found myself doing just that (and whilst doing this social research I found out she was also an ADHD Queen like myself, yassss girl!) I’m a big fan. Huge. 

Mike Dewis, as Pere Germont, also brought a depth of emotional weight to his role, grounding the drama with his powerful portrayal of Alfredo’s conflicted father.Phoebe Rayner as Flora / ensemble also deserves kudos as I found myself worried about her future as her mistress faces her demise and her voice was beautiful. Owain GwynFryn also caught my eye with his strong stage presence in the ensemble playing various characters so I just know he would’ve rocked playing Germont in that 27th September performance. 

The small ensemble and creative set design by Jane Bruce worked wonderfully in the intimate space, proving that less is sometimes more. The musicians, led by Laurence Panter, created a rich, atmospheric sound that enhanced the emotional journey without overwhelming it. Special mention must be made of the accordion played by Iñigo Mikeleiz Berrade and Alise Silina, which added a unique texture to the performance, bringing a touch of folk and melancholy to the score. I’m also an accordion superfan so I am biased…no really, I really want to learn it. 

Now, as mentioned from my previous opera reviews, I am a newcomer into this fabulous Operatic world, but let me tell those opera novices reading that the opera audience are ever so slightly fanatical, in the best way possible of course. They truly live and breathe the genre and I am here for it as I’m a passionate and dramatic person myself so I fit right in. I certainly enjoyed my half time and after show eavesdropping to get the full scoop on what the collective view on the show was, and I am happy to say that it matched my own. It was a huge success with the Opera mafia and certainly a performance I’d happily sit and watch again. 

In conclusion, if you have the opportunity to experience La Traviata with the Barefoot Opera Company, I highly recommend doing so. It’s an emotional, beautifully sung, and creatively staged production that will stay with you long after the final note has been sung. I know this as I ended up going down a research rabbit hole the very next day to learn more about the history of the Opera (Did I mention I have ADHD?) Whether you’re an opera aficionado or a curious newcomer like me, this production is bound to leave an impression. A standing ovation from me!

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COMPANY

Tylor Lamani – Alfredo Germont
Beren Fidan – Violetta Valery
Mike Dewis – Pere Germont

Phoebe Rayner – Flora / ensemble
Owain GwynFryn – Ensemble / Germont alt. (27th September)
George Seymour – Ensemble

Kezia Robson -Annina / Ensemble
Francesco Maria Piave – Librettist
Giuseppe Verdi -Composer

Michael Spenceley -Co-Director
Alfie Chesney – Co-Director
Jenny Miller – Barefoot Opera Artistic Director

Natascha Stolle – Costume Designer
Jane Bruce – Set Designer
Laurence Panter – Musical Director

Alex Milne – Assistant Director
Emma Gasson – Lighting Designer
Laurence Panter – Pianist

Lucy Mulgan – Double Bass
Michelle Hromin – Clarinet
Iñigo Mikeleiz Berrade Accordion
Alise Silina – Accordion