Ferzan Özpetek premieres new version of 'La Traviata'

Turkish director Ferzan Özpetek, who is a well-known figure in Italian cinema, is again staging Verdi's famous opera 'La Traviata' in Naples for the first time since 2012Italy-based Turkish director Ferzan Özpetek has directed Guiseppe Verdi's famous opera "La Traviata" for a second time, premiering the piece on Nov. 3 at Europe's oldest theater, the Real Tiatro di San Carlo in Naples. 

The gala drew great interest from opera lovers, including famous Turkish actress Tuba Büyüküstün, as well as renowned figures from the Italian cinema sector. 

During the gala of the three-act opera, inspired by Alexandre Dumas' novel "The Lady of the Camellias," the leading roles, Violetta and Afredo, were played by Maria Grazia Schiavo and Spanish tenor Ismael Jordi, respectively.

Özpetek staged "La Traviata," whose libretto was written by Francesco Marie Piave, in 2012 on the same opera stage and received positive reactions from critics. He also staged the opera "Aida" in 2012 in Florence. 

In the current rendition, Özpetek remains largely faithful to the classical story, depicting an East-West synthesis in Paris in 1910. 

At the same time, water pipes and Ottoman costumes were used in the first scene of the opera, which features a party at Violetta's house. 

Changes in opera made by Özpetek 

For the latest rendition of the opera, Özpetek said he removed some oriental factors that he had used in his first version of "La Traviata." 

"There was a general rehearsal a few days ago. People's reactions were very nice. I am pleased that they appreciate it. It is bad that people are crying, but I liked it here," he added. 

When asked why he chose Naples for the opera once again, Özpetek...