Center Stage Opera Presents LA TRAVIATA, 9/21-28

Tickets for Dylan F. Thomas' new production of Verdi's immortal La Traviata are already going fast! One of the most beloved operas of all time, La Traviata was also the inspiration for the hit film "Pretty Woman" starring Julia Robers ("Violetta") and Richard Gere ("Alfredo"). But while Hollywood insists on a "happily-ever-after" ending, opera (and real life) often takes a different direction. La Traviata's moving story and music will be brought to life on The Madrid Theatre stage by an outstanding cast, led by Shira Renee Thomas and Dylan F. Thomas at the Sunday 3 pm matinees (9/21,28), and byRachelle Woolston and Matthew Miles at the 7:30 pm Saturday evening performance (9/27). Brian Onderdonk leads The Center Stage Opera Orchestra through the lush score, and the English translation of the Italian libretto will be projected above the stage.

Tickets are $30, $35, and $40, with a 10% discount for seniors and students with ID. Call 818-517-4102, or go to www.centerstageopera.org, to order while good seats are still available!

Oh, and do you have your table reserved for this Sunday's Amici della Musica dinner-and-song event, 6 pm at Cucina Bene, 4511 Sepulveda Blvd. in Sherman Oaks? Don't miss our three outstanding artists (below), singing favorites from opera, Broadway, jazz, and soft rock, plus a gourmet dinner with your choice of entree: sea bass, chicken Cucina Bene, or fettucine alfredo. Still only $49, including tax and tip (wine available at additional charge). Reservations are required, so call or reserve online today!

Soprano Katie LaPorta Jesensky dazzled The Madrid Theatre audience with her stratospheric fireworks as The Queen Of The Night in CSO'sThe Magic Flute. Most recently, she appeared as Olympia in Les Contes d'Hoffman, and as Valencienne in The Merry Widow, both with Independent Opera Company.

Tenor Dylan F. Thomas is a master of most every musical genre. Most recently appearing as The Beast/Prince in "Beauty And The Beast" at the Cal Poly SLO Performing Arts Center, he will sing the role of Alfredo in CSO's upcoming La Traviata, as well as direct the production.

Most recently appearing in Long Beach Opera's production of The Death Of Klinghoffer, Mezzo-soprano Danielle Marcelle Bond has a long list of distinguished roles to her credit, including Carmen, Dido in Dido and Aeneas, and Siebel in Faust. Ms. Bond also applies her versatile vocal skills to film and TV scores.