ALL THE passion and drama of two great operas are bringing a sumptuous and stirring start to the New Year.
Opera-lovers and those keen to experience it for the first time, should make it one of their resolutions to book to see Puccini’s Madam Butterfly or Verdi’s La Traviata in Guildford.
The Yvonne Arnaud Theatre has just unveiled its 2016 programme, and it gets off to a rousing start with the two productions – one on stage, and one on screen.
Featuring an impressive cast, and accompanied by a large, live orchestra with more than 30 musicians, the Russian State Opera presents Madam Butterfly on February 1 and 2.
An opera steeped in tragedy and sorrow, the tale of the doomed love of American naval lieutenant Pinkerton, and his young bride Cio-Cio-San, inspired Puccini to write some of his most sublime and beautiful music.
Have the tissues at the ready for this poignant account of unrequited love and false hope, based on the true story of a Japanese geisha girl who had a son by ‘marriage’ to a US naval officer who soon deserted her, leaving her heart-broken.
Set in Japan at the turn of the century, Madam Butterfly is among the most colourful and exotic of all operas and this exquisite production, with its breath-taking set and costumes, intensifies the emotion.
Sung in Italian with English subtitles, this touching story of the innocence of love across two cultures resonates as strongly today.
Also on offer at the Yvonne Arnaud is Richard Eyre’s acclaimed production of La Traviata, brought to the theatre via an Encore Screening on Sunday, February 7, at 2pm.
This is one of opera’s greatest tragedies, and the film shows all the passion, drama and world-famous melodies from the Royal Opera House.
It opens in the indulgent social whirl of 19th century Paris where Violetta, a beautiful Parisian courtesan, is leading a life of glamour.
Darker undercurrents emerge though after she meets the love of her life, with the young couple forced apart by society conventions.
Verdi’s sensational score ranges from the jubilant, with the world famous Brindisi the toast of the piece, to the heart-breaking Parigi, o cara, in which the lovers poignantly imagine a life that will never be theirs.
It is traditionally staged with stunning, grand costumes and set in gloriously opulent ballrooms.
The conductor is Yves Abel and it is performed by an all-star cast led by Venera Gimadieva and Samir Pirgu as the doomed lovers.
Book now to enjoy a Sunday afternoon of stunning opera.
Perfect for first time opera goers and enthusiasts alike, La Traviata will not leave a dry eye in the house.
Tickets for Madam Butterfly and La Traviata can be booked via the box office on 01483 440000 or by visiting www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk
For those who could do with cheering up during this dark, dank month of winter, a rollercoaster one-man play based on the life of comedian Norman Wisdom could be a good bet.
Wisdom of a Fool, written and performed by Jack Lane, is at the Yvonne Arnaud on February 5 and 6.
Follow Norman’s journey from a tough childhood to the Army to the stage.