Set in the backstreets and attics of Bohemian Paris, La Bohème tells the heart-breaking tale of the doomed, consumptive Mimi and her love for a penniless writer, Rodolfo. Puccini’s masterpiece is based on Henri Murger’s novel Scenes de la vie de bohème.
Traditionally staged, the set is inspired by the art of the Bohemian period, particularly Chagall and Renoir, reflecting the art of the period. The authentic costumes also beautifully add to the ambience. The production includes a brass band, snow effects and Musetta’s adorable dog will also make an entrance.
La Bohème, the classic story of Parisian love and loss, features many famous arias including Your Tiny Hand is Frozen, They Call Me Mimi and Musetta’s Waltz.
Ellen said:
“The scene where Mimi and Rodolfo meet and she sings ‘They call me Mimi’ always makes me cry. It’s such a beautiful piece of music. I try to do opera that the audience can emotionally connect with, not just on a musical level but with the personal drama happening on stage”.
Ellen’s production showing the extreme poverty in the backstreets and attics of Paris, was inspired by reading George Orwell’s book Down and out in Paris.
Madama Butterfly is Puccini’s tragic tale on which the hit West End musical, Miss Saigon, is based. One of the world’s most popular operas, Madama Butterfly tells the heart-breaking story of the beautiful young Japanese girl who falls in love with an American naval lieutenant – with dramatic results. Highlights include the melodic Humming Chorus, the moving aria Un bel di vedremo (One Fine Day), the famous tenor aria Amore o grillo (Love or fancy) and the unforgettable Bimba, Bimba, non piangere (Love Duet).
With exquisite sets featuring a spectacular Japanese garden and fabulous costuming including antique wedding kimonos from Japan, the story will be told in the original Italian with English surtitles. As with any of Ellen Kent’s shows, Madama Butterfly is set to be a visually beautiful and moving production.
Ellen said:
“My operas have to be emotional and beautiful.”
La Bohème and Madama Butterfly will be conducted by Vasyl Vasylenko, who is the artistic director and conductor at the National President's Orchestra of Ukraine, Kiev. He will be joined by the guest conductor and artistic director of the National Opera of Moldova, Nicolae Dohotaru and 30 members of the National Ukrainian Orchestra, Kiev, together with the National Moldovan Opera.
Both La Bohème and Madama Butterfly will be sung in Italian with English surtitles. Cast subject to change.
