An Online Learning Experience: “The Traviata Project”
For the first time, Pacific Symphony is augmenting its opera performance with a series of online learning experiences to expand the “La Traviata” internet event. In the weeks leading to the June 5 streaming broadcast, Pacific Symphony Assistant Conductor, Dr. Jacob Sustaita, will host three one-hour online sessions available for $35, taking place on May 19, May 26 and June 1 at 5 p.m. Dr. Sustaita, with an extensive background in opera, will examine the story and complex personal backgrounds of the main characters, take his audiences behind the scenes with interviews of the cast, Music Director Carl St.Clair and Stage Director Robert Neu.
The Symphony is pleased to co-present “The Traviata Project” in cooperation with Laguna Beach Seniors at The SusiQ, where the Project will headline their robust series of online courses for their large and active membership. “How proud and pleased we are to have this partnership with Laguna Beach Seniors” commented John Forsyte, the Symphony’s president. “After all, Carl St.Clair is Laguna Beach’s ‘first citizen of music’ so this partnership between Pacific Symphony and Laguna Beach Seniors is only fitting.”
Course Description
Session #1: Verdi’s La Traviata: Love, Pathos, Sacrifice, and Illness
Wednesday, May 19 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Exploring the opera’s narrative, characters, theme, and meaning. Discussions with Music Director Carl St.Clair and cast members. Insights for new and experienced opera listeners.
Session #2: Alone Together / Together Alone: Behind the Scenes
Wednesday, May 26 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Verdi’s confronting reflection and commentary of life in his own time, and how Pacific Symphony and partners produced this masterpiece in Covid-times. Discussions with Bob Neu, Stage Director. Interviews with cast and backstage technical staff. Exclusive video from rehearsals and taping.
Session #3: Behind the Score: From Failure to Celebrated Icon
Wednesday, June 2 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Verdi’s synthesis of style, drama, virtuosity and humanity. Conversation with Carl St.Clair, Soprano Cecilia Violetta López and Stage Director Robert Neu.
To purchase admission for the three-part digital seminar, “The Traviata Project,” call Pacific Symphony’s box office at (714) 755-5799.