Madame Butterfly

Synopsis

Madame Butterfly is a tale of romance and heartbreak where eastern and western cultures collide in turn-of-the-century Japan. The story tells the tale of Lt. Pinkerton, a dashing American naval officer, who has arranged through a marriage broker to wed a beautiful young Japanese girl. His intentions towards her prove to be less than honourable when he abandons her soon after their wedding, by which time Butterfly has given up everything including her family and religion - for love, and now finds herself in desperate isolation. Three years later, a loyal Butterfly, who has borne Pinkerton a son without his knowledge, endures against all odds the long wait for his return. Pinkerton does return bringing with him his American wife, Kate, who is eager to adopt Butterfly's child. Having endured the loss of her family, husband, religion and now her child, Butterfly realises she can make only one tragic choice.

Our Review:

26 September 2012

Northern Ballet’s Madame Butterfly is a sumptuously-designed and skilfully interpreted tale of tragedy based on Puccini’s acclaimed opera. In David Nixon’s ballet East meets West with great effect. This is an exceptionally stylish production across the board, beginning with Nixon’s clever chorography and costume design, Ali Allen’s clean design, Peter Mumford’s subtle lighting and music arranged by John Longstaf and directed by John Pryce-Jones. The company copes well with the challenging – though well balanced - blend of classical ballet and Japanese influences. This is particularly enjoyable in the celebratory group wedding dances and Butterfly’s finale.
 
Innocence, love and betrayal unfold in the picturesque gardens of a Japanese Villa. Butterfly is a young, fragile geisha who sacrifices everything for the love of American Lieutenant Pinkerton, who deserts her and their child, returning years later with h...

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Latest User Review

Sharon McGurk - 1 October 2012:

Absolutely stunning. Took my 12 yr old Nephew and 9 yr old Neice, thought they may be bored but they were mesmerised. What a fabulous production. It was over far too soon....

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