La traviata
Opera Caledonia is delighted to present its production of Verdi’s “La traviata” in the glorious surroundings of Barwhillanty Estate.
In an arrangement by Derek Clark, Scottish Opera’s celebrated former Head of Music, this semi-staged concert retelling of Verdi’s timeless opera will feature three leading singers under the musical direction of Sicilian conductor Maestro Leonardo Catalanotto.
One of the most popular and frequently performed operas, La traviata follows the story of Violetta (a high class courtesan in 19th century Paris) and her passionate love affair with a young nobleman, Alfredo. Their developing romance is soon put under pressure as societal expectations, misunderstandings and illness threaten to tear them apart – ultimately leading to a heart-breaking conclusion.
Described by The Times as having “dazzling brilliance”, American soprano Kira Kaplan will perform the role of Violetta. A graduate of the National Opera Studio, Kira has worked with companies including Welsh National Opera, Opera North, Scottish Opera, Glyndebourne, The Royal Opera House and English National Opera to critical acclaim.
Alfredo will be performed by Scottish tenor Robert Forrest. Also a graduate of the National Opera Studio, Robert has worked with companies including Scottish Opera, Dorset Opera Festival and Garsington Opera Festival, making his Glyndebourne BBC Proms debut in The Marriage of Figaro in August 2025.
Armenian baritone Arshak Kuzikyan will perform the role of Alfredo’s father Germont. As a First Prize winner of multiple international competitions, Arshak made his Wigmore Hall debut in 2015 and has gone on to perform across Europe and in the UK with companies including Grange Park Opera and English Touring Opera.
Described by Zubin Mehta (who he regularly assists in Florence) as “having great experience in his work”, Sicilian conductor Leonardo Catalanotto enjoys an international career as a musician of the highest level. He has worked in many of Europe’s leading opera houses including the Teatro Massimo Palermo, the Maggio Musicale Fiorentino in Florence and the Teatro Real in Madrid with many celebrated artists including Angela Gheorghiu.
Nestled amidst the beauty of the Galloway hills of South West Scotland, the gardens of Barwhillanty Estate will provide the stunning backdrop for this production which is suitable for both opera aficionados and newcomers alike. An optional pre-performance supper will be available from 6.00pm ahead of the performance at 7.30pm.
Conducted from the piano by Maestro Catalanotto, this production will be sung in Italian with English surtitles.
This Opera Caledonia production is presented by Barwhillanty Estate, Arts D&G and Blackbird Opera.
“Arts D&G is very pleased to bring high-quality and heart-stirring opera to the Barwhillanty Estate during our 47th Dumfries & Galloway Arts Festival.” – Simon Hart, Director and CEO of Arts D&G.
“We are excited to host an incredible line-up for our first semi-staged opera with Opera Caledonia in our new Walled Garden Pavilion, where sounds and surroundings promise to elevate you in a spectacular sensory experience. We invite you complete the evening with a pre-performance supper, with food to tempt your taste buds. Join us for an evening to remember!” – Maria Yerburgh, Barwhillanty Estate.
La traviata
Saturday 30th June 2026 • 7.30pm
Barwhillanty Estate, Parton
Castle Douglas, DG7 3NS
£55.00 – £65.00
Running time: approx. 2 hours incl. interval
Booking & all enquiries via: www.barwhillantyestate.co.uk