Since its world premiere at Teatro alla Scala, Milan in 1904, Madama Butterfly has become one of the most iconic and best loved operas.
The sublime melodies are known throughout the world. The story triggers ideas about cultural and sexual imperialism for people far removed from the opera house, and film, Broadway and popular culture in general have engaged endlessly with it.
Moviegoers who saw the film Fatal Attraction will recognize the use of Puccini’s arias from Madam Butterfly”.
Anthony Minghella’s breathtaking production has thrilled audiences ever since its premiere at the Met in 2006.
Kristine Opolais reprises her acclaimed portrayal of the title role opposite Roberto Alagna as Lt. Pinkerton, who breaks Butterfly’s heart. The two stars are a dream team who also sang the title roles in Manon Lescaut viewed on March 12.
The conductor of the Met Orchestra is London-based Karel Mark Chichon.
“Opera first tells a story and it does so using all the arts (orchestra, voice, staging, choir, acting, costume, dance, lighting),” says opera-lover Gabriele Klein.
Butterfly is the story of a young Japanese geisha whose American lover (who she views as her husband) leaves to return to America and ultimately returns with his American wife.”
The musical score beautifully explores the emotions from the excitement before the wedding, the noisy relatives, the blissful wedding night, the wait for her husband’s return and the honourable Japanese ending.
“The lyric beauty of Puccini’s score, especially the music for the thoroughly believable lead role, has made ‘Butterfly’ timeless,” says Klein. “Bring lots of tissues.”
Madama Butterfly plays on the silver screen at 9:55 a.m. Saturday, April 2 with a run time of three hours and 38 minutes.
Tickets are available at the Salmar Grand or at the door.
