In 1992, a year after joining the China National Opera House, the Shenyang-born soprano Yao Hong, took on her first leading role as Violetta in Giuseppe Verdi’s La Traviata. The heroine of this classic opera — a Parisian courtesan who is beautiful, passionate, and independent, living a luxurious yet emotionally detached life surrounded by wealthy admirers — has become one of Yao’s most frequently performed roles.

Over the past three decades, Yao has played Violetta 79 times. On April 25 and 26, the 57-year-old soprano will once again take on the role for the 80th and 81st times in Beijing, in a new adaptation of La Traviata, which she is directing herself. This version, in contrast to the large-scale productions Yao typically performs in, will feature a smaller cast — just six opera singers — and simpler sets. Yao’s vision is to make opera more accessible in terms of cost, logistics, and intimacy.

“Even with a simplified setting, the core of the piece remains intact. It’s still Verdi’s La Traviata — the same plot, the same music,” Yao says. “While the number of cast members may be smaller, the vocal demands for the roles don’t change. You still need exceptional voices,” she adds.