Artist and film-maker Lynne Marsh has captured the world behind the stage at Opera North, whilst a live performance of Verdi’s La traviata was being performed on the stage of Leeds Grand Theatre five years ago.
The narrative unfolds in parallel with the ‘real time’ of the opera, revealing those elements of the production which are usually hidden. She explores the performance from the perspectives of technicians, stage managers, dressers and others as she reveals the mechanics which create what happens on stage.
You can enter this world to see for yourself via BBC iPlayer until 24 July. It’s part of the BBC Arts Culture in Quarantine season. Here it is.
Director Lynne Marsh
Cinematographer Margaret Salmon
Field Producer William Rose
Sound Recordist Tom Sedgewick
Camera Assistant Izzy Brittle
Editors Mathieu Bouchard-Malo and Lynne Marsh
Sound Mix Benjamin Hurd
Colourist Sue Giovanni
A special thank you to the Opera North company, cast, chorus, orchestra and technical crew for their gracious participation in the filming of this project.
Opera North cast and creative team
La traviata (Giuseppe Verdi), Winter 2015
Violetta Valery Anna Jeruc-Kopec
Alfredo Germont Ji-Min Park
Giorgio Germont Stephen Gadd
Annina Louise Collett
Flora Bervoix Victoria Sharp
Gastone Daniel Norman
Baron Douphol Peter Savidge
Doctor Grenvil Dean Robinson
Marquis d’Obigny Nicholas Butterfield
Giuseppe Paul Rendall
Messenger Dominic Barberi
Flora’s Servant Ross McInroy
Chorus of Opera North
Orchestra of Opera North
Conductor Oliver von Dohnányi
Director Alessandro Talevi
Set & Costume Designer Madeleine Boyd
Lighting Designer Matthew Haskins
Movement Victoria Newlyn
Video Designer Gemma Burditt
Photograph shows Victoria Sharp (Flora Bervoix) backstage. Provided by Opera North.