- Puccini’s “Madama Butterfly” will be performed August 9-11, co-produced by Shanghai Opera House, Royal Opera House, and Shanghai Grand Theater.
- 90% of tickets sold; production features Italian soprano Federica Vitali and is directed by Moshe Leiser and Patrice Caurier.
- The production celebrates the 100th anniversary of Puccini’s death, with all stage props and costumes made locally in Shanghai.
The Shanghai Grand Theater is set to open its 2024-25 season with a series of performances of Puccini’s “Madama Butterfly” from August 9-11. This renowned opera is a collaboration between the Shanghai Opera House, the Royal Opera House, and the Shanghai Grand Theater.
Directed by Moshe Leiser and Patrice Caurier, this version has seen substantial preparation, including ten months of work and over 20 days of intensive rehearsals.
Puccini’s Masterpiece Opens Shanghai’s New Season
The production features Italian soprano Federica Vitali, performing the role of Cio-Cio-San for the first time outside Europe. The artistic elements of the show have been meticulously designed to align with Japanese traditions, enhancing the opera’s authenticity. Stage props and costumes have been produced locally in Shanghai, supported by the expertise of backstage staff from the Royal Opera House.
Xu Zhong, director and conductor of the Shanghai Opera House, will lead the chorus and orchestra, ensuring a high-quality musical performance. The stage design, props, and costumes have been created in Shanghai, reflecting a commitment to local craftsmanship and reducing logistical challenges.
The collaboration between these esteemed opera houses is not unprecedented, following successful partnerships on productions like “La Traviata” in 1999 and the China premiere of “Manon Lescaut” in 2014. This iteration of “Madama Butterfly” continues to build on this legacy, showcasing the blending of international talent and local expertise.
The opera, inspired by David Belasco’s one-act drama, was first performed in 1904 and has since undergone multiple revisions, solidifying its status as a timeless masterpiece. The Shanghai Grand Theater’s new season opening with “Madama Butterfly” underscores the enduring appeal of Puccini’s work and the theater’s role in bringing world-class performances to its audience.
The Shanghai Grand Theater’s staging of “Madama Butterfly” not only marks a significant cultural event but also exemplifies the power of international collaboration in the arts. This production is set to captivate audiences with its blend of local and global artistry.
“This version of ‘Madama Butterfly’ has been very popular. Its artistic conception is beautiful and moving with a clear storyline. The sad ending cannot cover up the beauty of Puccini’s music.” – Cormac Simms, Royal Opera House Executive Director.
