Subtle insights add to classic tale's appeal

La Traviata production gives audiences a more intense and intimate experience, Chen Nan reports.

In 1992, a year after joining the China National Opera House, Chinese soprano Yao Hong took on her first leading role as Violetta in Giuseppe Verdi's La Traviata. The heroine of this classic opera — a Parisian courtesan who is beautiful, passionate, and independent, living a luxurious yet emotionally detached life surrounded by wealthy admirers — has become one of Yao's most frequently performed roles.

Over the past three decades, Yao has played Violetta 79 times.

"Almost every year, I perform as Violetta, and she continues to inspire me," Yao says.