The Opera Pot's premiere production of "Butterfly's Dream" promises a one-of-a-kind and approachable experience, combining opera's timeless charm with cinema's compelling visuals. The production, which coincides with Giacomo Puccini's 100th death anniversary, intends to bring a new audience to the cherished classic Madama Butterfly in a modern and entertaining format.
The plot of "Butterfly's Dream" is similar to that of Madama Butterfly, telling the moving story of Cio-Cio San, a young geisha, and American Lieutenant Pinkerton stationed in Nagasaki, Japan. Pinkerton considers their marriage as a convenience, but Cio-Cio San falls profoundly in love, setting the stage for a sad operatic journey.
What distinguishes "Butterfly's Dream" is its unique style, which draws inspiration from the Japanese street theatrical tradition of Kamishibai. Through cinematic projections and live performances by a core ensemble of four vocalists, spectators will be transported to the evocative atmosphere of 1960s Japan, reminiscent of Neo Japanese Noir films.
Wendy Woon, who plays Cio-Cio San, is excited about the production's fresh perspective, which emphasises the character's perseverance and spirit of defiance. Woon's "Butterfly's Dream" seeks to question customary depictions while also providing audiences with a deeper connection to the character's journey.
The show, directed by SY Mah, promises to be physically gorgeous and emotionally compelling, with performances by Alan Lau as Pinkerton and Chieko Trevatt as Suzuki. Vincent Chen Wei Jie directs the music, and Debbie Tan Zi-Yang's lighting design contributes to the performance's atmospheric richness.
The Stamford Arts Centre's Black Box will host two performances of "Butterfly's Dream" on April 27 and 28, providing audiences with the opportunity to see this revolutionary reimagining of a timeless classic. Tickets are $35 and are available online, encouraging both seasoned opera fans and first-time attendees to engage on a thrilling voyage through music and movie.
a. Waterloo St, #155, Singapore 187962 | Stamford Arts Centre
You May Also Like
The Singapore Theatre Company Presents a Captivating Triple Bill