Madama Butterfly was a beautiful production to close out the 2024-2025 season of Vancouver Opera.
It was the grand finale with Giacomo Puccini’s most deeply-felt and imaginative opera, Madama Butterfly. Gorgeous staging, transcendent melodies, and a timeless tale of love and loss make Madama a must-see season finale. This production features a stellar international cast—including star sopranos Yasko Sato and Karen Chia-Ling Ho; and a creative team that brought authenticity to this beloved, emotionally charged opera.
Madama Butterfly told the poignant story of Cio-Cio-San, a young Japanese woman who marries American naval officer B.F. Pinkerton, only to face heartbreak and tragedy. Puccini’s lush and emotive score guides the audience through themes of love, betrayal, and hope, making it one of the most enduring works in the operatic repertoire.
I took in the preshow talk which always a good idea to understand how the opera will unfold. This was the Director Mo Zhou directorial debut with Vancouver Opera and she spoke eloquently about the production. The exceptional cast featured international talent from Japan, Korea, Canada, and beyond, bringing a depth of authenticity and artistry that makes this production truly special.
A Chinese-American artist celebrated for her innovative and thought-provoking productions, Zhou has been recognized internationally for her ability to bring fresh interpretations to classic works. Her extensive experience includes productions across the United States, Europe, and Asia, where she has been praised for her ability to blend striking visuals with deep emotional storytelling.
Look for details for Vancouver Opera’s 2025-2026 season.
