Madama Butterfly

This is just a fraction of the immense critical response that the new production of Puccini's Madama Butterfly drew after its opening performances at the English National Opera in early November. Anthony Minghella, the Oscar-winning film director renowned for his films, The English Patient, The Talented Mr Ripley and Cold Mountain, has made a stunning debut in the opera arena. 'Collectively, we [the creative team] have always admired the austerity of Japanese staging and how incredible precision is used to achieve great beauty. Our challenge is to create transparency through unadorned yet beautiful series of images. We don't want to interfere with the composer's intentions, rather expose them in a moving evening of music. It's a wonderful opportunity,' said Anthony Minghella before the premiere. In collaboration with his creative team he seems to have used the opportunity to the full. This Madama Butterfly was recognized as the Best Opera Production in the Laurence Olivier Awards 2006.