Los Angeles Opera’s presentation of Madame Butterfly is a sensory feast, capturing the sweeping emotions and vivid cultural landscape that define Puccini’s masterwork. Imported from Madrid’s Teatro Real, this production breathes new life into Mario Gas’s 24-year-old vision. It dazzles with elements that honor its roots while adapting seamlessly to its Los Angeles surroundings.

Central to its authenticity is the casting: nearly all the major Japanese characters are portrayed by Asian actors, a commendable nod to cultural sensitivity. In the lead role, veteran Korean soprano Karah Son delivers a seasoned, vibrant Butterfly, drawing on nearly 300 performances to create a portrayal both intimate and grand. Opposite her, Jonathan Tetelman’s Pinkerton, with his robust, baritonal tenor, captures both the allure and callousness of his character. Though ancillary, Butterly’s maid Suzuki (Hyona Kim), and Sharpless, the American consul (Michael Sumuel), bring remarkable depth to the production. Suzuki provides a steadfast presence that anchors Butterfly, while Sharpless exudes a thoughtful empathy, serving as a striking contrast to Pinkerton’s shallowness

A signature of this production is its Hollywood-inspired concept: a movie within an opera. Lights, cranes, and cameras transform the stage into a live film set, with a screen above projecting the drama in mesmerizing black-and-white. This innovative use of close-ups adds intimacy to the characters’ emotions, enriching Puccini’s tale of love and loss.

“Puccini’s opera, a masterpiece that endures across time, masterfully exposes the tragic consequences of cross-cultural exploitation”

Visually, the opera is a triumph. Franca Squarciapino’s richly colored kimonos infuse the stage with traditional Japanese artistry, while Pablo Santiago’s adapted lighting enhances the mood. Ezio Frigerio’s scenic design is masterful; the ornate home with ocean views swivels, shifting from opulence to monochromatic dread as the narrative darkens. Musically, the production shines under maestro James Conlon. Puccini’s score, brimming with poignant melodies, sweeps the audience along. A highlight is Son’s rendition of “Un bel dì,” ascending from a plaintive pianissimo to a heart-wrenching fortissimo, encapsulating Butterfly’s hope and despair.

Puccini’s opera, a masterpiece that endures across time, masterfully exposes the tragic consequences of cross-cultural exploitation and sex tourism, where power and privilege commodify the vulnerable. This narrative eerily mirrors today’s world, echoing instances where the wealthy exploit the young and marginalized. The opera’s timeless message warns against treating people as mere instruments of desire, a harsh reality that still demands our attention.

— G. Dhalla

LAO’s “Madame Butterfly” plays at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion through October 13th. More information HERE