Irish National Opera's Madama Butterfly: “It’s popular for a reason. It has stood the test of time and it’s one of the world’s most adored operas”

There is nothing quite like going to an opera. And in opera, there’s nothing quite like Madama Butterfly, the iconic show celebrated for its grand musical numbers, elaborate costumes and breathtaking sets.

This November, Irish National Opera is bringing Madama Butterfly to Dublin’s Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, performed like never before. In the iconic titular role will be illustrious Irish soprano Celine Byrne, who is hugely enthuastic about the production.

“What’s so great about this role is that everybody knows Madame Butterfly is an opera,” she explains. “Even people who’ve never been to an opera know the name Madama Butterfly.”
Created by legendary composer Giacomo Puccini, Madama Butterfly premiered in 1904. Since then, it has become ingrained in the history of opera not only for its story and mystique, but also for the technical expertise required to perform it.

“Unexpectedly, Madama Butterfly is the role that I’ve done most in my career,” Byrne says. “It’s the most difficult role in the soprano repertoire, because it’s very taxing on the voice and the body. For three hours, she’s on stage.”

Byrne gets plenty of sleep and drinks plenty of water to protect her body, and makes sure to sing every day to keep herself warmed up. She says it’s all worth it because she loves the show.

“First of all, I love that it’s Puccini, because I just love everything that Puccini writes. He writes so well for the soprano voice,” she says.

"Also, he wrote two operas with oriental music, even though he had never been to Asia. It’s quite remarkable that he takes up the harmonies and the nuances of Asian music from music boxes that he had received from Asian countries. I think for that reason, it’s a wonder.”

Byrne says she is also drawn to Madama Butterfly for the epic storyline. It follows a romantic young Japanese Geisha nicknamed Madama Butterfly, who marries American naval officer Lieutenant Pinkerton.

What follows is a tragic tale of yearning, betrayal, love and loss, all building to an unforgettable finale. While it may have premiered in 1904, the Irish National Opera performance manages to keep it fresh and new, while staying true to its roots.

“The music we work off is authentic since 1904,” says Byrne. “The music never changes, but the staging and concept do. With our concept in Ireland, it begins with Pinkerton’s funeral.  What would normally be the case from the order of music that Puccini writes, is that it begins when Pinkerton meets Madama Butterfly for the first time in her home country. But what we see in this version from director Daisy Evans is the future first. It’s really interesting.”

Along with the riveting storyline, the show is visually beautiful. With sets that transport audiences into another world, intricate costumes carefully crafted from silk and beads, and a beloved Dublin venue to host it all, there’s as much for the eyes as there is for the ears.

“Going to the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre is a wonderful experience,” says Celine. “The staging is fantastic, and the sets and costumes are amazing.”

While the opera is performed in Italian as per tradition, there will be English surtitles for the whole show – although Byrne says you may not need them.

“Even though it’s in Italian, you’ll be so transfixed by the story that you won’t even notice after a while,” she says. “You will be so captivated emotionally by the action going on on stage – it transcends language.”

No matter if you’re an opera connoisseur or newcomer, Irish National Opera’s production of Madama Butterfly is a must-see.

“It’s popular for a reason. It has stood the test of time and it’s one of the world’s most adored operas,” Byrne says. “I would advise anybody who hasn’t been, that if you want to come to opera for the first time, this is the one for you. And for those who have been to an opera, and who have seen Madama Butterfly before, you should come and see this one. Because it’s a very interesting take, with the story told from a different perspective.”

Finally, Byrne has some advice for anyone planning to attend: “Bring a tissue!”

• Madama Butterfly plays at the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, Dublin on November 2, 4, 6 & 8. Tickets are available now.