The opera "Madama Butterfly" by Giacomo Puccini will be performed on March 12 at the Big Hall of "Astana Opera". The symphony orchestra of "Astana Opera" will be conducted by the chief conductor – a distinguished figure of Kazakhstan, and laureate of the state prize of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Alan Buribaev.
Together with the soloists of "Astana Opera", the invited singer from Almaty, Baluan Berkenov, will take the stage to perform the role of Pinkerton.
“Pinkerton is a complex and contradictory character. He embodies youthful carelessness, selfishness, and, at the same time, glimpses of genuine feelings. I relate to his sincerity in moments when he is truly captivated by Cio-Cio-San, but it is also essential to convey his internal unpreparedness for serious commitments. The greatest challenge is to avoid turning Pinkerton into a caricatured antagonist. He is not a villain, but a man of his time and culture, for whom this marriage is merely a game. Yet, it is his frivolity that leads to tragedy. Finding a balance between the charm of the character and his irresponsibility is one of the main tasks for the performer,” commented Baluan Berkenov.
The soloist also noted that this performance will be his twentieth in his career, and he expressed joy that it will take place on the stage of "Astana Opera".
Additionally, the speaker mentioned that "Madama Butterfly" was Puccini's most beloved work; he could listen to it tirelessly, over and over again. The story of Cio-Cio-San, nicknamed Madame Butterfly, is well-known to many, revolving around a fifteen-year-old Japanese geisha who fell in love with an American lieutenant, bore him a son, and after a long wait, ended her life by suicide upon learning of her lover's betrayal.
Critics describe her as a rebel because she renounced her traditions, resulting in her rejection by both her family and her people.
“Last year, the world celebrated the 100th anniversary of the death of Giacomo Puccini – a composer whose music forever changed the art of opera. I love performing his works: they are filled with depth, drama, and genuine human emotion,” concluded Baluan Berkenov.
On March 12, the role of Madame Butterfly will be performed by Ulpan Aubakirova, Suzuki by Tatyana Vitsinskaya, Sharpless by the distinguished figure of Kazakhstan Talgat Musabaev, with Beimbet Tanarykov making his debut as Goro, Azat Malik as Yamadori, and the role of Bonza will be played by the distinguished figure of Kazakhstan Zhanat Shybykbaev, with Kat as Elena Ganzha.
In the role of the Aunt, Aigerim Amanzholova will make her debut, Mother will be played by Nazym Sagintai, and the role of Cousin will be a debut for Leila Alamanova. For the first time, the role of Yakuside will be presented by Alikhan Zeynolla, Commissioner by Nurlybek Kosparmakov, and Official by Talgat Allabirinov.
We remind you that the director of this performance is Lorenzo Amato, the scenery was created by the outstanding contemporary scenographer Ezio Frigerio, the costume designer is Oscar winner Franca Squarciapino, and the choirmaster is the distinguished figure of Kazakhstan Yerzhan Dautov.