Year 10 See 'La Traviata' at The Royal Opera House

Fourteen of our Year 10 scholars took the opportunity this week to experience opera for the first time at the Royal Opera House.

They watched La Traviata, the most performed opera and an excellent introduction to the tragic theatrical tradition.

In a packed auditorium of fellow students from over 50 schools, they were treated to a dazzling performance by the international cast that included renowned soprano Ermonela Jaho, in the tragic role of Violetta Valēry.

We were made most welcome by the Royal Opera House staff, and as group discussed our expectations of what the performance would be like. At the first interval I heard it described as "awesome" and "like nothing I've ever seen", which satisfies at least one of the requirements of the experience as providing new and unique memories.

Focus was maintained by our group throughout a long performance and expressed on the journey home in recognition of the drawn-out tragic conclusion that categorises opera.

We were provided a rare treat of seeing the scenery changed prior to the final act by the stage crew. A trainee gave a first-hand account of his journey into the role, applying after his own trip to see a performance with his school a year ago. An opportunity surely to reflect on the potential for our students and the various jobs that might similarly be open to them in the future.

 

Richard Exley, English Teacher

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Students read their programmes before the performance. We were provided a rare treat of seeing the scenery changed prior to the final act by the stage crew.