La Traviata is popular, but it still requires artistry to succeed Young soprano Katja Webb, making her debut in the role, was at her best in Violetta's more fragile moments, singing with well-judged, subtle inflections and a lovely warm tone. OPERA La Traviata, West Australian Opera His Majesty's Theatre, Perth, April 9 WEST Australian Opera's mainstage season for 2013 consists of three of the most popular works in the repertoire, La Traviata, Don Giovanni and La Boheme. While safe programming may ensure a win at the box office, it doesn't necessarily guarantee artistic success. Traviata is one of Verdi's most loved works, its beautiful melodic invention and simple yet compelling storyline wins over audiences every time. Yet, for all its appeal, the opera demands consummate artistry from the two principal characters who must negotiate some difficult writing while maintaining a focused emotional intensity. Tuesday's opening night was very much a hit and miss affair. By act three she seemed to find her comfort zone on stage and brought a poised vulnerability to Violetta's tragic demise. However, in the more extrovert numbers, Webb was less settled, both physically and vocally, her tone more covered and the top notes lacking resonance. Returning to Perth after an indifferent performance two years ago in The Tales of Hoffmann, tenor Rosario La Spina, playing Alfredo, seemed better prepared on this occasion. He can create a fine Italianate sound and some phrases were sung with assured craftsmanship but his performance was marred by vocal inconsistencies and poor stage presence. He often struggled to control tone quality, in some phrases the sound changed from note to note, and the top register was always strained. Douglas McNicol brought a stately presence to the role of Germont. Although not in the best form vocally, after settling in, he sang with a fluid, rich tone. Local singers did well in the smaller roles but the chorus singing was disappointingly undisciplined and lacking in refinement. Elijah Moshinsky's ageing production still looks wonderful with its stunning sets and costumes. Joseph Colaneri and the West Australian Symphony Orchestra provided excellent support although stopping for applause after each number became a little tiresome. As the company's new artistic director, Colaneri has some challenges ahead of him. In addition to improving the chorus, greater consistency in casting has been a pressing issue for some time. It will also be interesting to see if Colaneri leads the company away from such unadventurous programming to provide its supporters with a broader, more challenging range of operatic experiences. La Traviata, West Australian Opera, His Majesty's Theatre, Perth. Thursday night, Saturday, April 16, 18 and 20.Tickets: $38 - $160. Bookings: 132 849 or online.