Ellen Kent chats about La Traviata & Madama Butterfly

Why do you think these two opera are considered classics?

They focus on the timeless theme of love and the sacrifices that people will make for love. The heroines are beautiful, tragic and although doomed and condemned for their choices and life style ultimately are redeemed through their final acts which are driven by love. The details of each story are specific but the themes are universal.

If someone is new to opera, are either of these a good place to start?

They have inspired or been inspired by other musicians and artists to use the stories, characters and setting and so I think people are more familiar with the stories and characters and music than they realise. Madama Butterfly partly inspired Miss Saigon and La Traviata itself was inspired by Alexander Duma's La Dame aux Camellias. The stories are also very personal, so they make great first opera experiences.

Opera has become more accessible to audiences. Was that one of your aims?

I always wanted to somehow draw people into the worlds in the operas, to make the settings and costumes very beautiful as a background to the timeless stories. I always like to give people more than they expect, even from opera. That is why we so often have animals and local extras, because it helps the audience get lost in the shows.

What keeps you going?

Passion for what I do, pure and simple.

Do you tour with the productions and if so what do you like about touring?

I don't manage to tour as much as I used to, but I always enjoy the camaraderie and the sense that we are all working to create something beautiful and spectacular. The company is like one huge family.

If someone has seen Miss Saigon and enjoyed it, would Madama Butterfly appeal to them?

If Miss Saigon were a tree, Madama Butterfly would be its roots. Even if the style of music seems very different it is fascinating to see and understand the inspiration for Miss Saigon and must increase the enjoyment of both shows.

What made you want to work in Opera as a medium?

The challenge of being asked to produce an outdoor production of Nabucco in 1993 in the grounds of Rochester castle was just too exciting to say no to. Every production I do I create more challenges for myself and opera is perhaps one of the most spectacular and intricate art forms there is. So many things have to come together just right at just the perfect moment. It's thrilling to be a part of.

If you could summarise the appeal of these two operas in 10 words, what would you say?

Spectacles of sight, sound and emotion-the ultimate night out!

Ellen Kent's Madama Butterfly and La Traviata are both currently on tour across the UK. For tour dates, click here.