Performance of the opera masterpiece 'Madama Butterfly'

The story of a young Japanese woman who falls in love with a US naval officer in the opera 'Madama Butterfly' was performed at the Ho Chi Minh City Opera House.

The Ho Chi Minh City Opera House recently staged the opera masterpiece 'Madama Butterfly', drawing hundreds of spectators for its performances. The Ho Chi Minh City Ballet, Symphony Orchestra and Opera (HBSO), in collaboration with the Consulate General of Italy in Ho Chi Minh City, presented the acclaimed opera on the evenings of 11 and 12/9. This production, artistically directed by Le Ha My, the theater's director, also marked HBSO's 33rd anniversary.

The production featured a distinguished cast, led by Meritorious Artist Pham Khanh Ngoc in the pivotal role of Cio-Cio San. Pham Khanh Ngoc, known for her commanding stage presence, vocal technique, and character insight, has previously performed roles such as the Queen of the Night (The Magic Flute), Adele (Die Fledermaus), and Frasquita (Carmen).

Joining her was Italian tenor Marco Miglietta as Pinkerton. Miglietta has trained extensively with renowned international opera figures like Raina Kabaivanska and Renata Scotto, performing in many major theaters and festivals across Italy and globally.

The cast also included Dao Mac as Sharpless, Phan Hong Dieu as Suzuki, and Pham Trang as Goro, supported by the HBSO chorus and symphony orchestra.

Italian conductor Roberto Fiore served as both conductor and music director, collaborating with Tran Nhat Minh, who was responsible for the chorus staging. Fiore, currently based in China, has dedicated years to bridging Italy's symphonic music traditions with contemporary artistic life in Asia.

Doctor Le Ha My explained that 'Madama Butterfly' was presented as a two-act concert version, divided into three performance parts. This approach maximized the impact of the music, vocals, and original dramatic structure. Experts recognized 'Madama Butterfly' as a testament to cultural exchange, highlighting HBSO's commitment to expanding international cooperation and bringing world-renowned classical opera to Vietnamese audiences.