a new production
A new production of 'Madame Butterfly' is coming to Philadelphia. Featuring music composed by Giacomo Puccini, directed by Aria Umezawa, and a score by Karen Chia-ling Ho and Anthony Ciaramitaro, let Opera Philadelphia transport you to Puccini's Japanese fantasy. Immerse yourself in the rich culture, history, and artistry, seamlessly blending Western and Eastern influences.
Madame Butterfly
The tragic love story is set in the early 20th century. A US naval officer named Pinkerton is stationed in Nagasaki, Japan and marries a local girl named Cio-Cio-San, also known as 'Butterfly'.But after their marriage, she is soon abandoned by her new husband. Devastated, she never gives up on his return. When the pair finally reunite, she discovers that he has an American wife. Cio-Cio-San must make a difficult decision, but will it lead to her downfall?
Giacomo Puccini
Known as the greatest Italian opera composer of his time, Puccini was the first to embrace the trend of realism in his works. While there were expectations that he would follow in his father's footsteps as a composer, he initially showed little interest in music. However, his mother decided to find him a tutor at a local music school. Over time, he improved, and by the age of 14, he became the church organist and started composing his first musical pieces. In 1876, he discovered his true calling when he attended a production of Verdi's 'Aida,' marking the beginning of his long career in opera.