A highlight of the summer, Britain’s leading outdoor touring company, Opera Brava, present Madam Butterfly by Puccini, performed with a chamber ensemble against the magical backdrop of the Elizabethan House.
Now in its 36th season, Opera Brava is thrilled to bring Madam Butterfly to Borde Hill. This vibrant new production, set in Japan features an international cast and promises an evening of emotion and beauty with Puccini’s remarkable score. Rising opera talent Zita Syme takes the stage as Madam Butterfly, her powerful portrayal blending innocence and tragedy, ensuring audiences are both captivated and moved. Håkan Vramsmo joins as Sharpless, an Ambassador with a commanding presence and magnificent voice, while Paul Hopwood makes his Covent Garden debut as Lieutenant Pinkerton in 2025, adding anticipation to his portrayal here at Borde Hill.
Puccini called Madam Butterfly his favourite work, one he never tired of listening to in its entirety. It is a poignant tale of a beautiful young geisha who sacrifices her family, her faith, and ultimately her life for her American husband, Lieutenant Pinkerton. Stationed in Japan, Pinkerton marries Butterfly with no intention of taking her back to America, leaving her love, and her dreams, tragically unfulfilled.
Sung in English, Madam Butterfly is a breathtaking experience for newcomers and seasoned opera aficionados alike, exploring themes of love, betrayal, and resilience in one of the world’s most beloved operatic masterpieces.
Performance Information
Entry
The performance will take place on the South Lawn. Access will be through the Visitor Reception, located at the top of the drive. Gates open at 6.30pm. The performance begins at 7.30pm.
Parking
Please park in the visitor car park. The opera will take place on the South Lawn, approximately 100m from the car park. Cars may not be left in the car park overnight.
Accessible Parking
The car park surface is gravelled with designated spaces for blue badge holders located close to the Garden entrance.
Refreshments & Picnics
Guests are welcome to bring picnics. A selection of barista coffee, loose leaf tea, soft drinks, wine and snacks will be available for purchase from the Garden Café adjacent to the performance area.
Toilets
Toilets, including an accessible toilet, are located at the reception building.
Dress Code
This event will go ahead regardless of the weather, please come dressed appropriately. Umbrellas will be permitted.
Seating
Please bring your own low-back chairs as seating will not be provided. Gazebos are not permitted.
No Smoking is permitted within the Garden
No photography is allowed during the performance
