Organization

Admin

Mission Opera

Stage director

Chris Catena

Conductor

Giovanni Pompeo

Chorus master

Hugo Vera

Repetiteur

Lindsay Aldana

Set designer

Nik Taylor

Costume designer

Constanze Bonelli

Makeup artist

Lisa Poleshek

Sound designer

Don Pittman

Video designer

Brayden Hade

Singer

Soprano

Lisa Houben

Cio-Cio-San

Joanna Parisi

Tenor

B.F. Pinkerton

Chris Anderson

Baritone

Gabriel Manro

Sharpless

Joshua Wentz

Executive producer

Mezzo-soprano

Alexis Wesley

Suzuki

Sarah Wang

Steve Moritsugu

Goro

Genghong Cai

Dominic Lim

Prince Yamadori

Bass

The imperial commissioner

Phil Meyer

Uncle Bonze

Eugene Carbajal

Genevieve Harnsberger

Kate Pinkerton

Shannon Alise Moore

Jason Vincent

Uncle Yakusidé

Alexei Helmbock

The official registrar

Kirstin Ariel

The aunt

Aurica Avonaires

The cousin

Silent

Artyom Avonaires

Sorrow

Arturo Delgadillo

Dancer

Choreographer

Maiko Okajima

Italian

Madama Butterfly -  (Madame Butterfly)

Canyon Country

United States

Canyon High School Performing Arts Center

Madama Butterfly Puccini

Public

Private

Madame Butterfly

Matias Vergara Moyano

Approved

Premise:

"Madama Butterfly" stands as a quintessential masterpiece by Puccini, drawing inspiration from David Belasco's adaptation of a story by American author John Luther Long. However, it's essential to steer away from portraying Americans solely as antagonistic or cynical figures. This narrative transcends borders, resonating universally with themes of love, cultural disparity, and tragic endings amidst societal and cultural differences.

 

Character Exploration:

At the heart of the narrative is Cio-Cio-San, the titular "Butterfly," a true tragic heroine. Despite criticism, she embodies unwavering faith in her love and a steadfast sense of honor. Her journey from a naive fifteen-year-old, seeking redemption from poverty through marriage to a foreigner, to a woman shattered by betrayal and societal norms, epitomizes the essence of tragedy.

 

Themes and Symbolism:

"Madama Butterfly" delves into themes of hope, loss, and sacrifice amidst a backdrop of societal upheaval. The recurring motif of hope, embodied by the figure of a dancer, juxtaposes the harsh realities faced by Cio-Cio-San. The symbolic paper boat, a harbinger of Pinkerton's return, transforms into a vessel of despair as the narrative unfolds.

 

Character Dynamics:

The complex relationship between Cio-Cio-San and Pinkerton is emblematic of cultural clashes and exploitation. Pinkerton's opportunistic behavior, driven by selfish desires and cultural superiority, contrasts sharply with Cio-Cio-San's innocence and vulnerability. The manipulative machinations of characters like Goro and Sharpless further exacerbate her plight.

 

Climactic Tragedy:

As the narrative progresses, the atmosphere shifts from hope to despair, culminating in a tragic denouement. Cio-Cio-San's ultimate sacrifice, driven by a moral dilemma and shattered dreams, epitomizes the eternal struggle between honor and love. Her poignant demise underscores the devastating consequences of societal norms and cultural misunderstandings.

 

Conclusion:

"Madama Butterfly" transcends its operatic roots to become a timeless exploration of love, sacrifice, and the human condition. Through nuanced characterizations and evocative symbolism, the narrative invites audiences to reflect on the complexities of relationships and the enduring power of hope amidst adversity.

 

Christian Francesconi Catena

English

Madame Butterfly by Puccini, From (2024/2024), Directed by Chris Catena,, Conductor Giovanni Pompeo, Canyon High School Performing Arts Center, Canyon Country, United States

Performance credits (Cast & Crew )

Cast

Crew

Program, About & Synopsis

Photos

Further reading

Performance Dates & Venues

Venues