The award-winning producer Ellen Kent returns with the Italian tragedy, Madama Butterfly. Ellen returns to Swansea Grand Theatre on 7 March and as always, she is making the production a community affair.
Ellen has invited local stage school Dance Academy Wales to nominate one of their shining stars to play the child of the titular Madama Butterfly, Sorrow. The youngest cast member will get to experience the joy of treading the boards in this exquisite production of Puccini’s masterpiece in a production featuring international soloists, highly-praised chorus and full orchestra.
Lois Parrington aged 6 from Pennard Primary School will appear opposite acclaimed Korean soprano, Elena Dee who sings the role of tragic Cio-Cio San. After being seduced and then deserted by Lieutenant Pinkerton and being shunned by her family and friends after discovering she is pregnant, Cio-Cio San names her child Sorrow, ever hopeful that Pinkerton will return so she can rename the child Joy. However, when Pinkerton finally does return with his new American wife, Cio-Cio San ends up taking her own life, racked with despair over his betrayal. Lois is currently rehearsing for the role with her drama school and will be joining the cast and full orchestra for the performance at Swansea Grand Theatre on 7 March.
Madama Butterfly is Puccini’s tragic tale which the hit West End musical Miss Saigon is based on. One of the world’s most popular operas, Puccini’s Madama Butterfly tells the heart-breaking story of the beautiful young Japanese girl who falls in love with an American naval lieutenant – with dramatic results. Highlights include the melodic Humming Chorus, the moving aria Un bel di vedremo (One Fine Day), the famous tenor aria Amore o grillo (Love or fancy) and the unforgettable Bimba, Bimba, non piangere (Love Duet).
With exquisite sets featuring a spectacular Japanese garden and fabulous costuming, including antique wedding kimonos from Japan, the story will be told in the original Italian with English surtitles. As with any of Ellen Kent’s shows, Madama Butterfly is set to be a visually beautiful and moving production.
This production will be sung in Italian with English subtitles.
Tickets available from the Box Office on 01792 475715 or at www.swanseagrand.co.uk and are £16.50 – £34.50.
