Florida Grand Opera's Performance Of "Madama Butterfly" - A Review
5:05 PM
So last Saturday was the final performance of Giacomo Puccini's, "Madama Butterfly" performed by the Florida Grand Opera at the Broward Center of the Performing Arts aka Au Rene Theater and I was fortunate enough to attend. For those seasoned Opera lovers, the story of Madame Butterfly is truly one of the most beautiful, intense and emotional stories. With that in mind, it's what the performing company invests that can truly make the opera have the impact it was meant to. If you are new to the storyline, here is a little synopsis from the FGO.org site:
A Japanese geisha catches the fancy of a caddish American naval officer. She crosses cultural boundaries to become his bride and grapples with a serious dilemma while faithfully awaiting his long delayed return. Puccini's tale of tradition, romance, sacrifice, and yearning is one of the world's most beloved operas.
I have seen this opera a few times in the past as it is a favorite of mine and I have always adored Puccini. I can say with all honesty that this was one of the most intense, emotional and volatile performances that leaves an impact. I was highly impressed with the production set, the cast and of course the conductor. They all mix in an way that has you leaving the theater wanting more and thinking about every aspect. Debuting that evening was the amazing Vanessa Isiguen as the star character Cio-Cio-San which was spellbinding. She made every feeling throughout the performance to the point that it was palpable. Martin Nusspaumer as Lt. Pinkerton was also fabulous and made you hate him to no end. Caitlin McKechney was perfect in her role as Suzuki and she really made you experience every emotion with note she was singing. The set design along with the cast truly transported you to a world of love, betrayal, passion and innocence that stays with you even after the curtain comes down. I wept at several moments and when it was over as the performers came out at the end, my heart melted when Vanessa and Caitlin came out to take a bow. I am truly happy that I was able to experience so much talent live a love that was timeless.
Vanessa Isiguen as Cio-Cio-San
Martin Nusspaumer as Lt. Pinkerton
Caitlin McKechney as Suzuki
It is with that in mind, that I let you know my culture stalkers to prepare for the upcoming operas that will be featured in the rest of the season. I will be looking forward to their upcoming interpretation of Così Fan Tuttè from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart in late January. Stay tuned for my pre post on what to expect including performance date and times. Happy Holidays and enjoy every minute! Xoxo
For more information on Florida Grand Opera and the rest of the upcoming season, go to: www.fgo.org.....
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