Description

Puccini - Madama Butterfly | Opus Arte 2 DVD Set

UPC: 809478009368

Product Features

Composer: Giacomo Puccini (1858-1924)
Conductor: Edo de Waart
Stage Director: Robert Wilson
Featuring:Orchestra: Netherlands Philharmonic Orchestra
- Madama Butterfly (Cio-Cio-San): Cheryl Barker
- B. F. Pinkerton: Martin Thompson
- Suzuki: Catherine Keen
- Sharpless: Richard Stilwell
- Kate Pinkerton: Anneleen Bijnen
- Goro: Peter Blanchet
Chorus: Chorus of De Nederlandse Opera
Running Time: Approx. 170 minutes
Audio Format: Stereo and Surround Sound
Picture Format: 16:9 Anamorphic, PAL
Subtitles: English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Dutch
Region Code: 0 (All Regions)
Label: Opus Arte

Overview

Robert Wilson's 2003 production of Puccini's Madama Butterfly, performed at the Amsterdam Muziektheater, is a visual and emotional tour de force. With its minimalist, highly stylized staging, Wilson accentuates the stark beauty and tragic intensity of Puccini’s famous opera. The brilliant Cheryl Barker delivers a heart-wrenching portrayal of Cio-Cio-San, a Japanese geisha who sacrifices everything for the love of the American naval officer B.F. Pinkerton, played by Martin Thompson.

Conducted by Edo de Waart, the Netherlands Philharmonic Orchestra brings out the lush, emotive score of Puccini, supporting an inspired cast. This production captures the delicate balance of beauty and despair that has made Madama Butterfly one of the most beloved operas of all time.

Interesting Facts

Robert Wilson's signature minimalist staging uses lighting and movement to create a serene, almost dreamlike atmosphere, heightening the emotional power of Puccini's score.
Cheryl Barker’s portrayal of Cio-Cio-San has been praised for its vulnerability and strength, making her a standout in this production.
Edo de Waart’s conducting of the Netherlands Philharmonic Orchestra offers a richly textured interpretation of Puccini’s music, bringing both the delicate and dramatic elements of the score to life.
This production was filmed in 2003 as part of a co-production between NPS Television and De Nederlandse Opera.

Track Listing

Disc 1:

Act I – The Arrival of Pinkerton and His Marriage to Cio-Cio-San
Act II – Cio-Cio-San's Wait for Pinkerton's Return

Disc 2:

Act II (cont.) – Pinkerton’s Return and the Tragic Conclusion

Extra Features

Illustrated Synopsis: A visual guide to the opera’s plot.
Cast Gallery: Photos and profiles of the principal performers.
Introduction to the Opera: Featuring interviews with Robert Wilson, Edo de Waart, and the cast, providing insights into the production and its unique approach to Puccini’s work.