Opera Columbus & Ohio State to Present MADAMA BUTTERFLY, 11/20-24

One of the most beloved operas of all time, Madama Butterfly never fails to move audiences with its dramatic, emotional tale of clashing cultures and maternal sacrifice, accompanied by some of Puccini's most stirring and beautiful music. Sung in Italian with English SURTITLES, the opera is produced by Opera Columbus in collaboration with The Ohio State University School of Music and Department of Theatre, and accompanied by the Columbus Symphony Orchestra.

Opera Columbus in partnership with the OSU Department of Theatre and School of Music present Madama Butterfly at the Southern Theatre (21 E. Main St.). There will be a preview performance on Wednesday, November 20, at 2 pm, and additional performances on Friday, November 22, at 8 pm, and Sunday, November 24, at 2 pm. Tickets are $38-$98 (preview tickets are $15 general admission seating) at the CAPA Ticket Center (39 E. State St.), all Ticketmaster outlets, and www.ticketmaster.com. To purchase by phone, please call (614) 469-0939 or (800) 745-3000. Young people aged 13-25 may purchase $5 PNC Arts Alive All Access tickets while available. For more information, visit www.GoFor5.com.

A Japanese maiden catches the fancy of a caddish American Naval officer, crosses cultural boundaries to become his bride, and grapples with a serious dilemma while faithfully awaiting his return. Puccini's story of tradition, romance, yearning, and sacrifice has been one of the world's most beloved operas for more than a century.

Priti Gandhi will perform the role of Cio-Cio San, and Harold Meers as Pinkerton. They will be joined by Robert Kerr as Sharpless, Olga Perez as Suzuki, Jeff McMullen as Prince Yamadori, John Nevergall as Goro, and Timothy Bruno as The Bonze.

The creative team includes director Crystal Manich, conductor Kostis Protopapas, and assistant conductor Jason Hiester.

Opera Columbus and The Ohio State University's Department of Theatre and School of Music have entered into an innovative partnership to provide new opportunities to connect professional performers with university students. Eligible students selected will participate in Opera Columbus's "Opera Goes to School" educational tour and young artists' program including courses co-taught by Opera Columbus and School of Music, as well as participating in main stage productions, which for the 2013-2014 season includes Madama Butterfly. Graduate students in Theatre have the opportunity to participate in stage management, costume design, and set design, and may serve in various capacities in the productions.

Photo credit: Kyle Widder