The finale of Vancouver Opera’s 2024–2025 season, Madama Butterfly brings Giacomo Puccini back to the Queen Elizabeth Theatre stage April 26-May 4.
photo: Deanna Milligan
Bringing together gorgeous staging, transcendent melodies, and a timeless tale of love and loss makes Madama Butterfly is a must-see season finale. This Vancouver Opera production features a international cast—including star sopranos Yasko Sato and Karen Chia-Ling Ho—and a creative team that brings authenticity to this beloved, emotionally charged opera.
Madama Butterfly tells the story of Cio-Cio-San, a young Japanese woman who marries American naval officer B.F. Pinkerton, only to face heartbreak and tragedy. One of the most enduring works in opera, Puccini’s lush and emotive score guides the audience through themes of love, betrayal, and hope.
“We’re honoured to close our 2024–2025 season with a production that captures the passion and tragedy at the heart of Madama Butterfly,” says Tom Wright, General Director of Vancouver Opera. “This opera has captivated audiences for generations, and under the direction of Mo Zhou, it will be a powerful experience. Our exceptional cast, featuring international talent from Japan, Korea, Canada, and beyond, brings a depth of authenticity and artistry that makes this production truly special.”
Leading the Vancouver Opera Orchestra is VO Music Director Jacques Lacombe (Die Fledermaus, Don Pasquale), whose dynamic and nuanced conducting has garnered worldwide acclaim. Appointed as Music Director in 2023, Maestro Lacombe continues to elevate Vancouver Opera’s artistic excellence with every production. Joining him is award-winning stage director Mo Zhou, making her Vancouver Opera debut with Madama Butterfly.
In addition, Madama Butterfly features an acclaimed international cast. The role of Cio-Cio-San (Madama Butterfly) will be performed by two exceptional sopranos: Yasko Sato (April 26, May 1, May 3): Tokyo-born soprano Yasko Sato makes her Vancouver Opera and Canadian debut in this production. Karen Chia-Ling Ho (April 27, May 4): Celebrated for her powerful and emotive performances, Korean-American soprano Karen Chia-Ling Ho brings depth and passion to the role of Cio-Cio-San in her Vancouver Opera debut.
The role of B.F. Pinkerton will be performed by two distinguished tenors: Robert Watson (April 26, May 1, May 3) known for his “powerful, clarion sound” and compelling stage presence, making his Vancouver Opera debut. Adam Luther (April 27, May 4) is acclaimed for his “bright, ringing tone” and versatility in a wide range of repertoire.
Additional principal cast members of Madama Butterfly include Japanese mezzo-soprano Nozomi Kato making her Vancouver Opera debut as Suzuki, Canadian baritone Brett Polegato (Don Giovanni, Eugene Onegin) as Sharpless, Korean-American tenor Julius Ahn (Turandot) as Goro, Korean bass Insung Sim making his Vancouver Opera debut as The Bonze, Canadian baritone Luka Kawabata (Carmen, A Midsummer Night’s Dream) as Prince Yamadori, and Canadian soprano Heidi Duncan (Die Fledermaus, Carmen) as Kate Pinkerton.
This diverse casting underscores Vancouver Opera’s commitment to presenting authentic and culturally resonant performances. The principals are joined by members of the Vancouver Opera Chorus and the Vancouver Opera Orchestra.
Adds Wright, “The enthusiasm for this opera has been overwhelming, with ticket sales already tracking at the same level as our sold-out performances of Carmen last season. We encourage audiences to secure their seats early for what promises to be one of the most breathtaking productions Vancouver Opera has ever staged.”
Vancouver Opera presents Madama Butterfly for five performances, April 26, 27, May 1, 3, 4, 2025 at Queen Elizabeth Theatre, 630 Hamilton Street. Tickets for Madama Butterfly are now available online at vancouveropera.ca or by calling the VO Ticket Centre at 604-683-0222 (Monday–Friday, 9 AM–5 PM).