Edinburgh opera lovers are in for a treat at the end of this month when Ellen Kent’s Opera Festival brings Puccini’s Madama Butterfly and Verdi’s La Traviata to the Edinburgh Playhouse.
As opera buffs will know, Madama Butterfly is the story of a young Geisha who falls in love with an American naval lieutenant. Her love for Lieutenant Pinkerton is so deep she forsakes her family and her faith by marrying the American. But her happiness doesn’t last and soon love turns to betrayal with Madama Butterfly forced to make an agonising sacrifice.
Highlights include the melodic Humming Chorus, the moving aria One Fine Day and the unforgettable Love Duet.
International Korean soprano Maria HeeJung Kim from the National Opera House of Seoul will be making her debut in the UK singing the role of the tragic Cio Cio San
The cast also includes Alyona Kistenyova, the international soprano from Odessa National Opera and Spanish tenor Giorgio Meladze
Exquisite sets are promised including a spectacular Japanese garden and fabulous costumes.
As well as Madama Butterfly, there will be performances of Verdi’s La Traviata, a tragic tale of searing passion, one of the most popular love stories of the 19th century. Based on a true story, it tells of the passionate loves and life of Violetta.
Highlights include the Brindisi, the best-known drinking song in opera, the duet Un Di Felice and Violetta’s haunting aria Addio Del Passato.
La Traviata is at the Edinburgh Playhouse on Thursday 29th March 2018. Tickets here.
Madama Butterfly is at the Edinburgh Playhouse from Friday 30th to Saturday 31st March 2018. Tickets here
Author of The Team for Me - 50 Years of Following Hearts. Runs Mind Generating Success, a successful therapy practice in Edinburgh. Contact me if you want rid of any unwanted habits. Twitter @Mike1874
