Kristine Opolais returns to the Wiener Staatsoper this month, to star as the title role of Puccini’s Madama Butterfly. A highly acclaimed signature role for Ms. Opolais, she has previously appeared in Josef Gielen’s timeless production at the Wiener Staatsoper, with set designs by Tsugouharu Foujita.

Her stunning portrayals of Butterfly have led her to renowned opera venues like the Metropolitan Opera, Bayerische Staatsoper, and Covent Garden. On October 12 & 16, Opolais will share the stage with Ivan Magrì as Pinkerton, Paolo Rumetz as Sharpless, and Monika Bohinec as Suzuki. Jonathan Darlington conducts the Vienna State Opera Chorus and Orchestra. Previous acclaim as Madama Butterfly at the Wiener Staatsoper:

“Kristine Opolais brought intelligence and an impressive vocal technique to this difficult part…Vocally there was much to savour in Opolais’ interpretation with several well executed high notes such as the piano top D flat on “Amor” at the conclusion to the “ancora un passo” chorus. The mezza-voce was consistently impressive. “Un bel dì” was memorable for its quiet restraint and extremely delicate ppp “chi sarà, chi sarà” middle section. The final top B flat on “l’aspetto” was spinto stupendo.” (Bachtrack)

Photo credit: Michael Pöhn