Giacomo Puccini’s masterpiece opera, Madama Butterfly consistently ranks among the world’s top ten operas. Unfolding with the lyric beauty of Puccini’s music, the heart-wrenching story of the butterfly-like geisha, Cio-Cio-San has a powerful impact.
Today, almost a century and a quarter since the premiere of Madama Butterfly in 1904, the startling realism or ‘verismo’ of Puccini’s portrayal remains relevant. With the full dramatic force of opera, Puccini conveys the tragic predicament that women face in emotionally dangerous situations with men who hold all the cards. With trusting naivety, Cio-Cio-San believes with all her heart that her beloved American Lieutenant will return to marry her and raise their child – only to be betrayed.
This stunning opera is performed by Festival Castell Peralada in coproduction with Deutsche Oper Am Rhein. Stage direction is by the brilliant Spanish Director, Joan Antón Rechi. The Festival’s exceptionally stellar cast features Maria José Siri in the title role; Roberto Aronica, as Lieutenant Pinkerton; George Gagnidze as Sharpless, the US Consul; and Veronica Simeoni as Suzuki, Cio-Cio-San’s maid. The Orkestra Sinfonikoa (Orquesta Sinfónica de Bilbao) and the Coro Intermezzo/ Intermezzo Coros a la Carta are led by the charismatic Italian maestro, Marco Armiliato, one of today’s most sought-after conductors.
Madama Butterfly will be presented on Thursday, 17th and Saturday, 18th January at 7:00 pm. An informative pre-performance talk that will enhance the experience of the opera will be held in the Maidan Hall on the second floor of the ROHM building one hour before each performance. Admission is restricted to ticket holders. For further information and booking consult the ROHM website: rohmuscat.org.om
