Last night San Francisco Opera's 2016-2017 season continued with Giacomo Puccini's hearbreaking drama Madama Butterfly. One of the most famous stories of love, betrayal and sacrafice featured the cast of young American debut of young Italian tenor Vincenzo Costanzo as Lt. B.F.Pinkerton and return of Armenian soprano Lianna Haroutounian as the tragic heroine, Cio-Cio-San.

Artist Jun Kaneko, well-known for his abstract forms, use of lines and colors, has designed the sets and costumes which created colorfully modern appearance. Unique use of projected painting in action as maestro Yves Abel and the orchestra delivered a dramatic musical work.

Phenominal performance and standing ovation for Lianna's performance was well deserved, as she portrayed a young Japanese Geisha who fell head-over-heels in love with her new American husband. Ms. Haroutounian perfectly captured the innocence and playfullness of the little wife who gives up everything—family, fortune, and honor—to marry the handsome U.S. naval officer B. F. Pinkerton.

Bass-baritone Matthew Stump as the Impreial Commissioner and Adler Zanda Svede as Suzuki's outstanding voices deliver a powerfull performance. Not to forget the youngest member of the troupe, portraying Madame Butterfly's son, whose tiny appearance on stage created a rollercoaster of emotions in the audience.

Trully compelling production and a must-see. Thank you San Francisco Opera for an unforgettable evening.

by Juliet Belkin