Madama Butterfly Review: Celine Byrne Excels as Cio-Cio-San
In Irish National Opera's production of Puccini's Madama Butterfly, soprano Celine Byrne presents a Cio-Cio-San who is confident and progressive, rather than naïve and fragile.
Innovative Set Design Enhances the Opera
The brisk overture, originally unfolding alongside a casual conversation about traditional Japanese homes and their sliding partitions, is reimagined in this co-production with Scottish Opera. Designer Kat Heath transforms that small detail into a striking set of enormous movable panels that dominate the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre’s stage.
- The panels' large scale is both commanding and immersive.
- They move laterally and horizontally, creating intimate or expansive spaces.
- The neutral colors allow lighting designer Jake Wiltshire to suggest mood and time.
- The set is functional without distraction, allowing for dramatic reveals and concealments.
- At times, the panels mimic the effect of a camera lens zooming in and out, adding a cinematic quality.
Director Daisy Evans’ Cinematic Touch
"This effect contributes to a cinematic leavening throughout, something the production’s director, Daisy Evans, uses for emotional immediacy."
Evans employs this cinematographic approach to deepen the audience's emotional connection to the story.
Summary
This production offers a fresh, visually striking interpretation of Madama Butterfly, with Celine Byrne’s assured performance and innovative stagecraft enhancing Puccini’s timeless opera.
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