Giacomo Puccini: Madama Butterfly

The opera is based on an American writer’s novel, written according to a true event. The composer found everything he needed in the story of Cio-Cio-San’s unhappy love – a sentimental story, sharp plot contrasts, exotic setting, action and tenderness. The spiritual background of the opera is the meeting of two cultures – in the character of Pinkerton (as the cynical representative of the superior white race) and a young Japanese girl. The music of Madam Butterfly shows great mastery in giving a true picture of the atmosphere and poetry of the orient, even though it is borne by Puccini’s own harmonious devices.

Premiere: Mar 7, 1985

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