The Passion of Opera

Puccini's  Madama Butterfly  or  Madame Butterfly  is, unquestionably, one of opera's most beloved tales. In many ways it seems fairly straightforward to produce. The snags come, however, in the way the emotional content must be communicated. The first act culminating in " Vogliatemi, bene ," and the opening " Un bel dí vedremo " of the second act must create enough passionate, romantic tension to hold through the entirety of the second act (with the important exception, perhaps, of the revelation of her son) and most of the third act to the point of Pinkerton's return and ultimate betrayal. Most of the actual time of the opera is spent waiting, and unless the anticipation sets up an electric feeling of suspense, that waiting can be very boring. This review will run in somewhat reverse order - focusing on major characters, then comprimarios, and finally on the production itself. General information & synopsis:  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M...