Our accessible afternoon performances make coming to a favourite opera as easy and stress-free as possible – keeping the drama on stage where it belongs!

With Dementia Friendly values at their core, these shortened performances of La traviata are open to all. Performed by a full cast and orchestra, they also feature a presenter to introduce the story, characters and music from the opera. There are wheelchair spaces and extra staff on hand to help. There is also a smaller capacity to allow everyone space, and brighter lighting levels in the auditorium, giving you the flexibility and freedom to move about as required.

About La traviata

Violetta Valéry lives on borrowed time. In Paris’ hedonistic high society, she squeezes each day for its joys before her illness catches up with her. When the idealistic young Alfredo offers true love, happiness seems possible – but her past has exacted a price. Giuseppe Verdi’s devastating tragedy has inspired countless retellings, including cult favourite films Pretty Woman and Moulin Rouge!. In his passionate, gripping, and startlingly intimate production, Sir David McVicar (Il trittico, Falstaff, Pelléas et Mélisande) gets to the love and loss at the core of this doomed love affair.

Kindly supported by Scottish Opera's Education Angels
Part of Scottish Opera's 2023/24 season

• Maximum running time of 2 hours, including a 30 minute interval
• Afternoon start times for easier travel
• A presenter introduced the story and characters, with The Orchestra of Scottish Opera and cast
• Welcoming front of house staff who have undergone training provided by Alzheimer Scotland
• Doors open 45 minutes before the start, allowing time to get settled in
• Wheelchair spaces and extra staff on hand to help if you want to transfer
• Brighter lighting levels in the auditorium
• No need to keep quiet or sit still; you can come in and out of the auditorium during the show
• Lower capacity to allow everyone extra space
• Watch the live show on TV screens around the theatre if you need to
• Quiet areas available if you need to take a break
• Audio-description available
• Enjoy tea and cake in the café beforehand!

Mention opera and most people think of singing and music – but this is only part of the overall experience. What about scenery, costumes, lighting, direction and choreography? 

For those who are visually impaired, our audio description service provides a live commentary during the show, relating the action on stage without compromising the music. As part of the experience, a recorded introduction to the opera is available in advance, as well as a live audio introduction before the start of the performance. 

You can book tickets for audio-described performances via the venue box offices.

Call your local box office to book, or book online. Discounts available. Guide dogs are welcome. Find out more