Floats Like A Butterfly, Sings Like Kiri

One Fine Day We Shall See – An aria in Act 2 of opera Madama Butterfly. A scene where Nagasaki girl Coi-Coi San misguidedly opines to sceptical maid Suzuki that, despite it being three years since last seeing her husband, her marriage remains strong. As fragrant tree blossom cascades gently onto the women, Ms San…

Broadening Horizons

In an attempt to broaden my horizons, I’ve bought myself a ticket for the Opera North production of Madame Butterfly, this Tuesday night. Due to my procrastination, there was a paucity of unsold tickets remaining when I applied. Consequently, I had to settle for a seat with a restricted view. I’m unsure at this point…

Opera Without Soap

This morning the Facebook ‘On This Day’ app reminded me that two years ago today I received a ticket for The Marriage of Figaro…….. The unexpected jogging of my memory bringing to mind my elation upon receipt of this item of post. After all you can’t beat a good wedding, can you? I’d chosen to attend this Mozart written opera production after savouring my first…

Opera – Compositions, Conducting & Consumption

The all knowing master of social media Facebook has just reminded me that two years ago today I received a ticket for The Marriage of Figaro. This news stirred fond recollections of my upbeat mood upon the vouchers receipt twenty four months ago…… After all, you can’t beat a good wedding, can you? I had chosen to take in this production after relishing…

Vesti La Giubba

Put on your costume, powder your face. The people pay to be here, and they want to laugh. And if Harlequin shall steal your Columbina, laugh, clown, so the crowd will cheer! Turn your distress and tears into jest, your pain and sobbing into a funny face – Ah! Above is the English translation of the…

Che gelida manina

This morning Facebook reminded me that a year ago today I received a ticket for The Marriage of Figaro …….. I recall at the time being upbeat on receipt of this, as you can’t beat a good wedding, can you?! I had chosen to take in this production after savouring my first experience of opera…