Presented in the intimate surroundings of the Robert Baustian Theatre, “La Traviata” leaps to tragic life as the fragile and consumptive Violetta Valery discovers her adoring Alfredo, only to sacrifice herself later on the altar of that love.

“Because the basic elements of La Traviata are universal and timeless, it is a story that’s been told many times, in many ways. Yet one never tires of seeing or hearing it, because with every hearing or reading there’s always something new and fresh that comes to the surface,” notes Mark Ferrell, KU Opera’s musical director.

KU Opera’s production will be sung in Italian with projected English subtitles. The costumes have been designed by John Lehmeyer and rented from AT Jones and Sons of Baltimore, Maryland. Lighting design will be by KU Theatre Arts student Robert Figueira, a Lawrence native.

The role of Violetta will be performed, on alternating evenings, by Andrea Garritano and Tausha Torrez.

Performance dates are Thursday, Saturday, Jan. 29, Jan. 31 and Feb. 2 in Murphy Hall. All performances begin promptly at 7:30 pm.

Tickets are available by calling the Lied Center Box Office, 864-ARTS, or Murphy Hall Box Office, 864-3982. Tickets are $15 for adults and $7 for students.