Welcome to 5 Things to Know, the Atlanta Opera’s quick, insightful guide to the essential elements behind each production. In this episode, we focus on Giuseppe Verdi’s La traviata, ahead of performances on November 8, 11, 14, and 16, 2025, at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre.

Your guide today is conductor Evan Rogister, who distills the five most important aspects of this beloved masterpiece—what to listen for, what to watch for, and why this opera continues to captivate audiences around the world. Rogister explores the emotional depth of Violetta’s journey, the dramatic power of Verdi’s score, the social tensions driving the plot, and the moments of musical brilliance that define the work.

Whether you’re preparing for your first visit or brushing up before returning to a favorite, this episode offers a clear, engaging roadmap to enrich your experience of La traviata. Let’s get started.