INTERVAL
ACT 3 – Violetta’s bedroom, several months later
The tuberculosis that has haunted her life has taken hold and Violetta, abandoned by friends and protectors, is close to death. With bailiffs waiting at the door, she is attended only by Annina and Doctor Grenvil, who does his best to alleviate her pain. She constantly re-reads a letter from Giorgio Germont; Alfredo has fled France after wounding the Baron in the duel but his father assures her that he is now aware of her sacrifice and will come home soon. But time is running out and Violetta is willing herself to stay alive for his return.

Outside, all Paris is celebrating the Carnival season, the singing of the crowd drifting into the dying woman’s apartment. Suddenly Annina rushes in to prepare her for Alfredo’s arrival. The lovers embrace, forgiving each other, but even the joy of seeing Alfredo again cannot save Violetta. With death fast approaching, she presses a miniature portrait of herself into his hands as a keepsake. Full of remorse, Giorgio Germont arrives to beg Violetta’s forgiveness. Violetta dies.