S.F. Opera dives into hedonism of ‘La Traviata’

The first act of Verdi’s “La Traviata” is devoted to a lavish house party in 19th century Paris, where the two principal characters first make an explicit romantic connection (he’s loved her from afar for a year, she’s only just learning he exists). It’s not until the later acts that tragic complications ensue.

So what if we could just enjoy the celebration and skip the heartache and death? That seems to be the thinking behind “The Traviata Encounter,” the San Francisco Opera’s one-night-only exercise in breaking down the fourth wall.

Patrons for this event get a full performance of Verdi’s first act, just like in the ordinary run of the opera. But then they scatter to enjoy the sort of drinking, gambling and other adult entertainments that the opera’s party guests would have recognized. It’s a historical immersion in the life of the French demimonde. “The Traviata Encounter”: San Francisco Opera. 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 19. $39-$189. War Memorial Opera House, 301 Van Ness Ave., S.F. 415-864-3330. www.sfopera.com

Cory Weaver/San Francisco Opera