Madama Butterfly review: Star soprano Celine Byrne is perfectly suited to this Cio-Cio-San

Madama Butterfly review: Star soprano Celine Byrne excels as Cio-Cio-San

In Irish National Opera’s production of Puccini’s Madama Butterfly, Celine Byrne portrays Cio-Cio-San as confident and progressive, moving away from the typical depiction of naivety and vulnerability.

Innovative Set Design Enhances Storytelling

The brief, dynamic overture leads into a casual discussion about traditional Japanese homes with sliding partitions. This understated detail becomes a central visual element in this production.

Designer Kat Heath creates a set of massive movable panels that dominate the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre stage. Their size is striking and their ability to shift laterally and horizontally creates varied spaces: from intimate to vast and dramatic.

The neutral tones of the panels provide a versatile backdrop that changes mood and time through Jake Wiltshire’s lighting, contributing to the opera’s atmosphere without distraction.

Cinematic Elements and Emotional Impact

“Sometimes they create the illusion of watching through a camera lens, zooming in, zooming out.”

This cinematic approach is embraced by director Daisy Evans, enhancing emotional immediacy and providing fresh perspectives on character interactions and stage dynamics.

Summary

Byrne’s assured performance and the innovative, cinematic production design offer a fresh, emotionally impactful interpretation of Madama Butterfly.

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The Irish Times The Irish Times — 2025-11-03

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