Vancouver Opera did it again, stunning audiences with a gorgeous production of one of the classics: Puccini’s Madama Butterfly.
Set in Nagasaki, this tragic tale begins with a wedding between a pleasure-seeking American naval officer and a young geisha. While the American soon tires of his beautiful ‘Butterfly’, she is devoted to the marriage, going as far as forsaking her religion and ancestors. Eventually, the American abandons her, only returning after three years to reclaim his child – and Butterfly is devastated. In a supreme act of devotion to her ancestors, she ends her life.
The award-winning Soprano, Jee Hye Han, was phenomenal as the vulnerable Cio-Cio-San (Butterfly). Her flawless singing, the raw emotion – it was impossible to keep your eyes off her and even harder to not tear up. (Fun fact: The audience was so taken by her that the American naval officer - played by Adam Luther - was actually booed during curtain call!)
Directed by Michael Cavanagh, with Leslie Dada returning as the conductor, this classic tale of heartbreak, honour and love was pure musical sorcery.
Madama Butterfly ran at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre on March 5, 6, 10, 11, 12, 13.