Performer: Francesco Verna

The big season opener at La Scala offers few surprises in a traditional staging, although Yusif Eyvazov proved his worth in the title role. 

How picturesque do you like your Puccini? Do you take your Turandot sweet or sour? How much lacquer is layered over your ideal Madama Butterfly?

La Scala might not have had all the right cards in its garter Tuesday night to prevent ending up holding aces and spaces, but it’s hard to play without a full deck in the first place.