The eclectic programming of my local cinema, The Ashbourne Elite Cinema and Theatre, compelled me to start reviewing Opera, plays and Ballet for this blog.
Yesterday, I was present for a Royal Opera production of Madama Butterfly, with music by the great Giacomo Puccini. This production was conducted by Kevin John Edusei, and directed for the screen by Bridget Caldwell. For this screening, Madama Butterfly was sung in Italian with English subtitles provided onscreen.
Puccini's tragic opera was presented in 3 acts, telling the story of a marriage between Lieutenant Pinkerton (Joshua Guerrero) and Cio-Cio-San/Butterfly (Asmik Grigorian). When Pinkerton departs for America, his wife endures a long wait until she sees her beloved again,and it's his re-appearance that signals heartbreak is just around the corner.
There's so much to enthuse about in this fine production: the music, of course, is remarkable, performed by the orchestra of The Royal Opera House to perfection. Costume and set design are impeccable and the lighting is just beautiful. The cast are also uniformly first-rate, but a special mention for Asrik Grigorian whose rich soprano voice simply soars, bringing both joy and despair to proceedings.
Staged in 3 acts, Madama Butterfly is a triumph and well worth seeking out.
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