The go to opera for casual opera-fans, La traviata is packed with all the essential ingredients demanded by audiences.

And Welsh National Opera’s take on Italian composer Verdi’s best-known work did not disappoint.

Love, scandal and heartbreak combine in this tremendous three-act opera at Venue Cymru on Thursday October 12 as part of WNO’s Autumn season.

Sumptuous set design was complemented by an elegant array of costumes transporting us to 19th-century Paris.

Among the French capital’s high society circles we meet courtesan Violetta who is throwing a lavish party to celebrate her recovery from illness funded by her many male admirers.

The courtesan is introduced to young nobleman Alfredo Germont who confesses his love for her.

With death as a motivator she walks away from her lifestyle and embarks on a passionate love affair which sees her escape to the country and brings her true happiness.

This is however shattered when she receives a visit from Alfredo’s father who pleads with her to sacrifice her shot at love.

She must give up her newfound life and battle to keep her social standing.

Soprano Stacey Alleaume was magnificent as Violetta. She showed the beautiful and breath-taking side to the character of Violetta which then made the demise in health of the character all the more poignant. A magnificent voice, particularly on Sempre Libera (Always Free) made for a truly memorable performance.

Her heart-wrenching performance as the fallen woman whose longing to be loved proved the beating heart of this opera.

Her delivery particularly in her deathbed scene in which she is reunited with her estranged was tear-jerking.

David Junghoon Kim was phenomenal as Alfredo. His love swelled the stage and his magnificent voice filled the auditorium with ease. His emotionally charged and commanding performance powered along this production.

Mark S Doss was impressive as Alfredo’s father, Giorgio, while Sian Meinir was fantastic as Annina her anguish- stricken friend and helper.

James Cleverton was outstanding as Baron Douphol as was Martin Lloyd as Dr Grenvil.

Along with the lead vocal performances it was quite an experience to savour the perfection of the orchestra led by the talented conductor Alexander Joel together with the impressive chorus strength demonstrated during probably La traviata’s most recognisable piece 'Brindisi' ('The Drinking Song').

Welsh National Opera's production of Verdi's La traviata is at Venue Cymru until Saturday October 14 at 7.30pm.

WNO also host a family Play Opera on Saturday October 14 from 1.30pm.

For tickets and more information visit wno.org.uk or www.venuecymru.co.uk/