Verdi's glorious music again brought Dumas' "fallen woman" to life in style at the Alex last week.

A glorious set and sumptuous costumes provided the perfect setting for the powerful voices of the leading performers.

Giorgio Germont was sung superbly by the baritone Stanislav Trifanau, while his son, Alfredo, was played by Ruslan Zinevych. I was amazed when he began to sing, as he looked so young, yet had a mighty voice.

Thunderous applause greeted both men at the curtain call, but the theatre literally erupted when Larysa Zuenko came to take her bow.

I doubt if Violetta has ever been sung better. Bearing a strong resemblance to Mirella Freni, Zuenko gave a performance the great Freni would have been proud of, her powerful voice sending shivers down my spine. She is also a terrific actress.

A touring opera company always has problems transporting equipment, but this must be a really mammoth job for the Ukrainians, with not only a couple of large sets, but dozens of lavish ball gowns.

I hope they perform this again soon near us - I shall certainly be there. VJS