WHEN Ghanian-born singer Margaret Ferguson auditioned for a leading role in Bolton Opera 74’s updated version of La Traviata, artistic director Philip Sweet and his colleagues were bowled over.

There was only one problem — they had been looking for a Marilyn Monroe-style blonde bombshell to play the role of Violetta, as their new version of Verdi’s opera was set against a backdrop of glitzy Hollywood glamour.

So there was only one thing for it: “I had to do a bit of rewriting,” said Philip.

Now, instead of trying to side-step Margaret’s skin colour, Philip has made it one of the focal points of the story, which revolves around the inequalities of race in late 1960s’ America.

Margaret, aged 39, who comes from Manchester, was unaware of Philip’s original vision when she attended the audition held by the amateur operatics society.

She said: “I wouldn’t have looked good as Marilyn, would I?”

But Margaret says she is happy with the profile created especially for her.

Philip added: “For the purists we’ve maintained the opera’s intellectual integrity, despite amending the story.

“In fact, virtually all of the American references are contained in just one scene.

“But we hope that the more modern twist will encourage a new audience to explore something different.”

La Traviata will be at The Albert Halls, Bolton, at 7.30pm on September 23, 25 and 26.

There will be a free pre-show talk by Philip Sweet at 6.30pm on Friday and Saturday. Tickets are £12, students £5 from Opera74 Box Office on 01204 847543 or Albert Halls Box Office on 01204 334400.

schaudhari@thebolton news.co.uk