Taka Komagata

Puccini’s Madama Butterfly Puccini’s poignant score follows the tragic tale of Cio Cio San, a young Japanese girl who falls in love with American naval officer Pinkerton, with devastating consequences. Set in early 20th-century Nagasaki, Japan, Madama Butterfly explores themes of love, heartbreak, betrayal, and cultural differences. This tragic love story starts with an arranged marriage between a young Geisha, Cio Cio San, also known as Butterfly, and an American naval officer, Pinkerton. Shortly after their wedding, Pinkerton abandons Butterfly and returns to America; it becomes clear he had deemed the marriage temporary. Years later, Pinkerton returns to Japan with his new wife and learns that Butterfly has since given birth to their child. Upon learning that Pinkerton has a new wife and won’t live in Japan with Butterfly, she agrees to give up her son and commits hara-kiri. Featuring unforgettable arias like the iconic “Un bel dì” and the tender “Flower Duet,” performed with full orchestra, chorus, and world-class soloists, bringing Madama Butterfly to life in all its emotional beauty.