MUSIC

On May 20 and May 22, join HGO for one of Houston’s best loved traditions, Opera at Miller Outdoor Theatre. A warm summer night, glorious music and storytelling sets the scene for one of the world’s most romantic, moving and tragic operas, Madame Butterfly.

A passionate story deserves a passionate cast. Following a highly acclaimed debut in the title role, HGO soprano Ana María Martínez will perform the role of Cio-Cio San, the young Geisha girl, who is abandoned by the love of her life, a handsome American lieutenant B.F. Pinkerton, sung by rising star, Nathaniel Peake, recently seen in Ariadne auf Naxos and Lucia di Lammermoor. Martinez is an alumna of HGO’s acclaimed studio, where Peake has just completed his second year in the program.

"Singing the title role for the first time, Ana Maria Martinez displayed a sturdy lyric soprano full of warm colors and delicate shadings." - Associated Press

Conductor Craig Kier will lead a cast of over 85 singers and musicians to bring to life this poignant and heartbreaking story.

HGO’s production of Madame Butterfly, was originally directed by Tony Award-winning team of director Michael Grandage, set/costume designer Christopher Oram, and lighting designer Neil Austin. It will be directed at the Miller Outdoor Theatre by Luisa Muller with lighting done by Michael James Clark.

"Breathtakingly beautiful to see and to hear, Houston Grand Opera's new production of Puccini's Madame Butterfly launches the company's 56th season on a note of subtle yet complete triumph." - Houston Chronicle

HGO has performed at Miller Outdoor Theatre on a regular basis since 1957. General Director and CEO, Anthony Freud said, Madame Butterfly is all at once extraordinarily popular and heartbreaking, and features some of the most memorable and recognizable moments in music. It is sure to be an evening full of romance, music and singing.

***On Saturday May 21st, Miller Outdoor Theatre continues its operatic theme with the free screening of the infamous Marx Brothers film, Night at the Opera, an hilarious spoof on socialites, young love and the world of opera.