A night at the Opera

Its Monday night, and my culture genes are working overtime, and for the first time in a long time I took myself of to the Latvian State Opera house, to see and here La Traviata.

However as this was to be an evening of high culture, I first all off stopped and had a beer, followed by a burger in McDonalds - Pure Class ??

Now for those less cultured than myself allow me to give you a quick overview of the plot.

It is based in Paris in 1800's - but is sung in Italian ?? (why) - don't they know how to sing in French ? Based on a novel by Alexander Dumas. The title "La Traviata" means literally The Woman Who Strayed, or perhaps more figuratively, The Fallen One

As with all opera's it based on a love triangle.

So the story is Man (Alfredo) falls in love with Woman (Violleta) but mans' Dad (The Baron) objects as she is a woman of low reputation. But she is sick. Woman tells man she does not love him ( but she does!) - Man finds out she is really sick - returns to woman - but she dies !

All of this intersped with music and song

For a slightly longer narrative go to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/La_Traviata

Now I have to say it was a stunning performance, and once again demonstrates the talent that is in Latvia, and so to anyone who gets a chance - take the time, book a seat and enjoy - just like what I did ! http://www.opera.lv/ to check out the upcoming programme.

Monday morning also saw a visit to the Childrens home by representatives of the Rietumu Bank, and I think I can safely say that they were duly impressed with the work that they do out there, and they spoke at length to Sandra about what is involved both physically and financially in keeping the home up and running. Surprise, surprise our erstwhile kitchen man was actually there and has promised to finish the kitchen by the end of this week - as ever we shall but wait and see.

On the way back however it was confirmed that the bank would once again provide funds in 2008, for upgrading the electrics and toilet facilities.