BWW Reviews: Opera Australia's MADAMA BUTTERFLY

On Friday March 21 2014, Opera Australia did something I thought perhaps impossible; they converted me. I am now a true believer in the magic of Opera despite years of thinking it would not be worth the money. As I sit typing this review, I cannot help but regret having missed Opera Australia's previous shows (particularly the two previous Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour productions) but I am glad that I am now educated and awake to the beauty and magnificence that is Opera.

The opening night of Madama Butterfly was an experience like no other. Mrs Macquarie's Point, near the iconic home of Australian opera, the Sydney Opera House, has been transformed into the perfect location for a night out at the opera. From tree-top restaurants with delicious food and refreshing champagne on offer; to lantern-lit eating and greeting areas; to the view from the terraced seating of the stage and Sydney Harbour, it was easy to be swept out of reality and into a magical world. Despite seeing our famous bridge in the background, I truly felt as though I was in a Japanese garden. The surroundings of the stage set the mood and generated excitement for the performance. We were not left disappointed.

Hiromi Omura stole the show playing the title role of the 15 year old once Geisha, now bride, Madama Butterfly, otherwise known as Cio-Cio-San. I was transfixed by the power and emotion of her voice, often finding it hard to look away whilst she was singing. Despite being mesmerized by her talent, I lost no meaning despite missing a few of the translations that are conveniently provided at the front of the stage. Her body and vocal tone told the story.I did not need to know Italian to understand how she was feeling.

Credit must also go to Georgy Vasiliev who skillfully plays the part of Pinkerton, the property developer that marries Butterfly and entrances the young girl into complete devotion to him which, whilst I want to avoid spoilers, is not a mutual devotion. Vasiliev demonstrated superb acting and vocal ability particularly in Act II when his heartache and regret stung each lyric and movement.

The biggest stars of the night, however, were for me two people who were not on stage and that many may fail to acknowledge when they are sitting back in their seats enjoying the spectacle. Costume designer, Lluc Castells and set designer, Alfons Flores, must receive immense credit for creating the atmosphere and beauty of this piece. Outdoor productions are not an easy endeavor and yet the set design was both simple and elegant at the beginning and then later more intricate and run down with a huge transformation occurring at the interval. The costumes, also, were stunning with the particular standout being Butterfly's wedding gown. Both designers have done a brilliant job.

Directed by Alex Olle and conducted by Brian Castles-Onion, this production of Puccini's tragic love story is sure to make your jaw drop both in awe of the beauty of your surroundings and in shock at the dramatic and emotional turn of events. Word of advice; you may want to pack a few tissues.

For tickets and more information please visit: http://opera.org.au/whatson/events/operaonsydneyharbour

Photo credit: James Morgan