⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – Emotional, thought-provoking and a clever 21st Century adaptation
Lindy Hume has directed this production and brings with it a real female take on Madam Butterfly and it is incredibly well received with many giving a standing ovation at the end.
Although we are in Japan, we have no cherry blossom and no distinctive red colours. Rather we could be in modern day England. Instead of it being set in one room, we have a modern day house that cleverly twirls on the stage to show different parts of the house. We get to see the kitchen with the laundry waiting to be done – an aspect that is often glossed over and not seen. It helped us empathise further with some of the scenes. It helped me to really embrace the production. It is a 21st Century adaptation of Madam Butterfly and it is very much loved.
It is important to note that at the start of this evenings show, we were informed of a covid outbreak amongst the team of 12 electricians so the lighting was not at the standard of usual shows. It meant the show (more so in the first half) was incredibly white, coupled with the bridesmaids outfits, it had a sci-fi feel to it.
For those unaware of the story. Madam Butterfly (Alexia Voulgaridou) is 15 years old. Her father killed himself and her Mum has no money. To help support her Mum, Cio Cio San works as a hostess. She meets Lieutenant Pinkerton (Leonardo Caimi) of the United States Navy and they marry. Shortly after the wedding, Lieutenant Pinkerton returns to the States. Leaving his bride and her servant Suzuki (Kezia Bienek) alone. Madam Butterfly has a baby boy and as the years go by, the money starts to run out. Three years go by and suddenly American Consul Sharpless (Gareth Brynmor John) appears with a letter from Lieutenant Pinkerton. He is returning and he doesn’t want to see Madam Butterfly. He asks in the letter that Sharpless softens the blow, he is returning with his American wife. It is at this point that Sharpless discovers that Madam Butterfly has a child, Pinkertons child.
Puccini’s moving score really makes this production. You feel every song, every action, every emotion and James Southall (conductor) is truly phenomenal. What a talented individual with an abundance of energy and a smile that just lights up the room – a true pleasure and the orchestra, well, you were all delightful.
Soprano Alexia Voulgaridou was a delight to watch. Incredibly talented with the most beautiful voice and a real stage presence. My eyes 100% focused on her. A story in every movement that she did on the stage.
Leonardo Caimi in the role of Pinkerton played the character we all love to hate really well. His portrayal of a man full of remorse was great and his vocals were splendid.
A truly wonderful first opera experience for me. Definitely not the last.
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Disclaimer: I was invited to see the show by WNO. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.