Madama Butterfly at Estonian National Opera
Tallinn, Estonian National Opera
About the Event
Delve into the mesmerizing architecture of Tallinn's magnificent Estonian National Opera for an unforgettable concert experience that will deepen your appreciation for opera.
"Madama Butterfly" is a poignant opera inspired by a true tale set in Nagasaki at the turn of the 20th century, amidst the clash of East and West. The story follows the passionate love affair between Japanese girl Cio‐Cio San and American naval officer Pinkerton, exploring themes of love, betrayal, and unwavering devotion. Despite risking everything for Pinkerton, Cio‐Cio San's love endures even as he deserts her, oblivious to their child.
Puccini's exquisite music beautifully conveys the emotions of the characters in "Madama Butterfly," making it a beloved classic in the realm of opera. The music encapsulates the essence of poetry, passion, romance, and the allure of the East. Although the opera faced initial criticism during its premiere at La Scala in 1904, a later staging in Brescia truly captured the essence of Puccini's masterpiece, showcasing its enduring appeal to audiences worldwide.
Practical Information
The production is not recommended for children under 12 years of age. The show may require parental guidance.
Performed in Italian with subtitles in Estonian and English.
Program
- Giacomo Puccini – Madama Butterfly
Cast / Production
BUTTERFLY Yasko Sato (Japan), María Fernanda Castillo (Mexico)
PINKERTON Raimonds Bramanis (Latvia), Dumitru Mîţu(Rumenia), Reigo Tamm
SHARPLESS Tamar Nugis, Eugenijus Chrebtovas (Lithuania), Rauno Elp
SUZUKI Helen Lokuta, Aule Urb
GORO Mart Madiste, Mehis Tiits
KATE Karis Trass, Kadri Kõrvek
COMISSARIO Priit Volmer, Raiko Raalik
BONZO Jassi Zahharov, Märt Jakobson
PRINTS YAMADORI Yixuan Wang, Rafael Dicenta
LA MADRE Juuli Lill, Triin Ella
UNA CUGINA Carol Männamets, Danna Malõshko
LA ZIA Merit Kraav, Maria Leppoja
LO ZIO YAKUSIDE Kim Sargsyan,Tiit Kaljund
L’UFFICIALE Rein Saar, Mati Vaikmaa, Janari Jorro
Estonian National Opera
The Estonian National Opera company, established in 1870, presents a wide range of operas, operettas, ballets, and musicals. The opera house itself was constructed in 1913 as the initiative of the 'Estonia' song and drama society. At the time, this Art Nouveau structure was the largest in Tallinn. During the Second World War, the theater was destroyed. Restored in the 1950s under Soviet rule, the architects kept the original facade, but the rest of the building combines Neoclassical and Stalinist elements.
Giacomo Puccini
Giacomo Puccini was an Italian opera composer of the late 19th century. He was considered one of the greatest composers of the Italian Opera, second only to Verdi. His early works were characterised by features of the traditional 19th century romantic Italian opera. Later, his style developed into the realistic verismo style, which inspired him to write his most famous masterpieces and became one of the leading exponents of the style. His most renowned works La bohème (1896), Tosca (1900), Madama Butterfly (1904), and Turandot (1924), all are popular operas played in the most prestigious venues of the classical world.
Address
Estonian National Opera, Estonian Avenue 4, Tallinn, Estonia — Google Maps
