Exciting light play: Verdi's La traviata fascinates in Wiesbaden!

Exciting light play: Verdi's La traviata fascinates in Wiesbaden!

Opera fans can rejoice: Giuseppe Verdi's masterpiece “La traviata” is currently being performed in an impressive new production in Wiesbaden. This production, a collaboration with the Belgian Opera Ballet Vlaanderen, not only attracts opera lovers, but also enchants with its special lighting design and creative costumes. The film is directed by the talented Tom Goossens, whose experimental approach both thrills and occasionally polarizes.

The stage in this production impresses with its minimalist design that focuses on the light. Bart Van Merode, the lighting designer, uses the colors of the lighting moods strategically: party scenes appear in lively red, tangible togetherness between Violetta and Alfredo in pure white, while the final moments shine in dazzling light. Violetta herself controls the light intensity and coloring via a large lighting console, which contributes an impressive visual element. Particularly impressive is the moment when Alfredo throws colored foil at Violetta's feet at the end of the second act, which increases the emotional intensity of the scene.

Outstanding performances on stage

As Violetta, Sarah Young impresses with her vocal flexibility and emotional acting that is touching. Sam Park as Germont is also a real highlight of the evening, whose powerful baritone and stage presence captivate the audience. However, Katleho Mokhoabane in the role of Alfredo is less celebrated as his performance is described as less effective. But other actors also stand out: Fabian-Jakob Balkhausen as Marquis d'Obigny and Petra Urban as Annina inspire in their roles, while the choir under the direction of Aymeric Catalano delivers excellent performances both vocally and dramatically.

The premiere of the new production took place on November 1, 2025, and the subsequent performance on November 9 was sold out. Further performances are already planned for November 22nd and several dates in December and January 2026 - a clear indication that interest in this production is high.

Drama and light as a leitmotif

A key aspect of the production is the minimalist stage design, which gives the story space to unfold. The interplay between the lighting design and the emotional highlights of the performance ensures that the audience can immerse themselves in the dramatic story of love and loss. The costumes, inspired by Otto Dix and created by Sietske Van Aerde and Lena Mariën, further contribute to the overall harmony of the production.

You can tell that director Tom Goossens is pursuing an ambitious concept, but it doesn't always lead to the desired results. The handling of the emotional depth of the characters is occasionally described as inadequate, but still fascinating. The conducting GMD Leo McFall leads the Hessian State Orchestra Wiesbaden with a sure hand and ensures that Verdi's music shines in its full splendor.

Overall, it turns out that the new production of “La traviata” offers a successful mix of light, music and drama that stimulates and engages the audience in reflection. It remains exciting to see how the upcoming performances will be received and whether the production can gain even more strength in its future performances.

For opera lovers, attending this production is a real must - an opportunity to be enchanted by the magic of music and light. Further information about performance dates and ticket reservations can be found on the Hessian State Orchestra website. For more details about the current production, visit Der Opernfreund.