Puccini’s poignant and tragic tale of love, heartbreak and betrayal
The teenage geisha known as Madame Butterfly married the US sailor Pinkerton in Nagasaki three years ago. He returned to America; she hasn’t seen him since. But then the cannon announces the arrival of his ship. Through the night, she waits for him – with their son…
A superb cast brings this devastating story to life. Stunning soprano Erika Grimaldi returns to sing Puccini’s most tragic heroine, while Gaston Rivero makes his New Zealand debut in one of his signature roles.
Also making a welcome return is baritone Richard Šveda, as Sharpless and mezzo-soprano Elisabeth Jansson takes on the role of Suzuki in her New Zealand debut.
In Puccini, however, it’s above all the orchestra which sings with heartbreaking beauty, sophistication and overwhelming power. The Auckland Philharmonia’s Opera in Concert is one of the must-see events of the season, and with Maestro Giordano Bellincampi caressing this wonderful score it is true luxury casting.
Proudly part of the Auckland Council whānau
Location
Te wāhi
Local tip
He tīwhiri mō te rohe
Arrive early and explore the surrounding Aotea Arts Quarter. Aotea Square, The Civic, Aotea Centre and Q Theatre are all within a few minutes’ walk, with plenty of nearby dining options before or after a show.
Getting there
Te huarahi ki reira
Auckland Town Hall sits on Queen Street opposite Aotea Square. Te Waihorotiu Station is around a 2-minute walk away, while Waitematā Station and the ferry terminal are around a 17–20 minute walk down Queen Street. Frequent bus services stop nearby, and The Civic Car Park provides convenient parking close to the venue.
For more transport information, check out our Getting Around page.
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