With La Traviata taking to the Benedum Center stage, the Pittsburgh Opera has inspired us with this tragic performance about social standards and forbidden love. From March 16-24, you’ll have the chance to experience the spinning love story of the gorgeous and wayward Violetta and her beau, the handsome, noble and hopelessly romantic Alfredo.
Within the turbulence of act one, there’s a song titled Libiamo ne’lieti calici which has become known cheerfully as “The Drinking Song.” Here we see the two lovers meet for the first time, announcing a toast to the wonderful gathering.
Now, get prepared — drink in hand — to join the cast yourself! Below you’ll find bubbly drinks to help you make your own toast as you hum along to the drinking song. Just be cautious, the bubbly joys of La Traviata’s first act give way to the melancholy (and beautiful melodies) of acts two and three.
Good Luck Sparkling Pomegranate Cosmo
Lucky ingredients like oranges, pomegranates, and champagne all come together to make one of the best sips to toast with. Bring in a bit of sparkling good luck for your friends and family. All it takes is a fresh fruit juice base, healthy dose of vodka, Cointreau, and a bottle of champagne.
Aperol Spritz, A Cocktail for Leo
Much like the passionate Leo of the Zodiac, this Aperol Spritz will jolt you with a little kick. With the vibrant orange color of the Aperol and addition of orange bitters, it’s no wonder why this drink attracts fire signs. Add in a splash of prosecco and soda water and you’ve got your toast to love, family, and prosperity.
More Adventurous Valentine’s Day Cocktail
The sensual love affair in La Traviata is embodied in our More Adventurous Valentine’s Day Cocktail. Seductive passionfruit, sour lemon, and a brute sparkling wine will get you in the mood for some romance… and possibly a little drama, in true opera fashion.
Gin Fizz with Rizz
It takes a lot of charm and charisma for both Alfredo and Violetta to fall for each other. But, our Gin Fizz with Rizz might just outshine them both. With plenty of “rizz,” it only takes a few ingredients to get this stunning drink right. Just make sure you have egg whites and champagne nearby for the ultimate fizz.
The Ultimate Cranberry Mimosa
We promise it’s worth the bit of extra time it takes to make your own cranberry juice for our Ultimate Cranberry Mimosa. The bright red creation you’re left with is packed with flavor so that the prosecco, cava, or champagne is all you need to add. We have a bag of cranberries in the freezer, left over from the holidays. We’re sure you do, too. Now might be a good time to use them.
Story by Kylie Thomas
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