An Introduction to PUCCINI Madama Butterfly

 

Written by Thomson Smillie, Narrated by David Timson

 

OPERA EXPLAINED

An entertaining but informative series introducing the major operas of the repertoire, with historical background, an explanation of the plot and a presentation of the main arias and themes. Opera Explained is a unique idea. Nothing of its kind exists. An ideal introduction to individual operas either to prepare for the full Naxos recording, or a visit to the opera house.

 

MADAMA BUTTERFLY

Madama Butterfly is an opera that really does run the gamut of emotion and expression. From her wonderfully expressed fragility in the opening music, to the deep sexual instincts shown in the famous love duet, to her immense tragic stature in her last hours, Butterfly engages our emotions throughout. The exotic setting, the beautiful orchestral and choral music, and the story of her doomed marriage to an American sailor who quickly abandons her on his return home combine to make this one of the most exquisite and poignant of all operas.

 

THOMSON SMILLIE

Thomson Smillie began his career in the early days of Scottish Opera and has been artistic director of the Wexford International Festival, general manager of the Opera Company of Boston and general director of Kentucky Opera.  He now makes a career as a writer, speech-writer and public speaker.  He has a strong belief that people mature into a love of opera and travels the world encouraging a love of the art form.  His other passions are travel, languages and friendships.

 

DAVID TIMSON

David Timson studied acting and singing at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. He has performed in modern and classic plays through the UK and abroad, including Wild Honey for Alan Ayckbourn, Hamlet, The Man of Mode and The Seagull. Among his many TV appearances have been roles in Nelson’s Column and Swallows and Amazons. For Naxos AudioBooks he has recorded to date four volumes of The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, and directed Twelfth Night as well as playing Feste. He is also the narrator in the Naxos recording of Stravinsky’s The Soldier’s Tale.

 

Naxos Opera Explained 8558049