As has been the tradition, the municipality of Tel Aviv-Yafo will collaborate with Israeli Opera to organise a free performance of famous opera piece, ‘Madame Butterfly’ at the Ganne Yehushua Park.

The Municipality of Tel Aviv-Yafo, in collaboration with the Israeli Opera, will continue the tradition of free opera productions at Ganne Yehushua Park with a special production of the famous opera, Madame Butterfly.

In a press statement, Israel Tourism says that produced by renowned Italian composer Giacomo Puccini, Madame Butterfly is among the greatest operas of all time. In accordance with long-standing tradition, the event will be moderated by Mayor of Tel Aviv-Yafo Ron Huldai, it adds.

“Opera in the Park, a 20-year Tel-Aviv tradition, that allows tens of thousands of local and international opera lovers to experience the beauty and magic of the opera beneath the starry sky in an accessible way. I created the tradition inspired by the belief that every person in the country deserves the opportunity to enjoy art, and opera in particular. I am immensely proud that this event attracts a diverse audience every year, drawing in everyone from avid fans of the opera to first timers. This year, theatregoers will undergo an emotional and artistic journey as they enjoy the timeless beauty of one of the most renowned operatic masterpieces ever composed. I implore everyone to come and enjoy the show with us this year!” says Huldai.

The statement adds that every year since its inception 20 years ago, thousands of people of all ages have flocked to Ganne Yehushua to enjoy Opera in the Park and take in the artistry and storytelling of the opera free of charge.

Madame Butterfly, composed by Giacomo Puccini and based on a short story by John Luther Long, is considered to be one of the most famous operas of all time. The reputation and name of Madame Butterfly precede it, and not only among die-hard lovers of the opera. Several of the arias featured in the opera have become well-known in general popular culture, says Israel Tourism.

The opera details the tragic tale of Cio Cio San, a young Japanese girl who falls in love with an American naval officer named Pinkerton, with devastating consequences. After they marry, Pinkerton leaves Japan, leaving her destitute, alone, and pregnant with his child. Upon his return to Japan after three years of absence, she discovers that he has married an American woman, and the couple wants to adopt her child. She chooses to preserve her dignity and take her own life, allowing her son to be left with his father and father’s wife.

The opera will be conducted by musical director of the Israeli Opera Dan Ettinger and directed by Gadi Schecter, who has directed previous iterations of Opera in the Park. Much of the talented cast hails from the Israeli Opera, including soprano singer Alla Vasilevitsky in the titular role, baritone Oded Reich in the role of Sharpless, mezzo-soprano Shay Bloch and tenor Joseph Dennis. The opera will also feature dancers. The Israeli Opera Choir will be accompanied by the Israeli Rishon LeZion Symphony Orchestra. The performance will start at 20:30 on August 3 and the doors will open at 19:00.

“Israel is a country with a rich cultural, historical and religious heritage, and is home to a variety of attractions that offer something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or just looking for a unique experience, Israel is a destination that is sure to deliver,” says Sammy Yahia Director of Tourism India and Philippines.

“Opera in the Park is a beautiful tradition which we have had for the past 20 years. This offers the people the possibility to enjoy opera in a more relaxing and enjoyable environment beneath Tel Aviv’s starry sky. Everyone can attend the event and fully enjoy themselves while taking in the art. The fact that we will be hosting a special production of Madame Butterfly makes this occasion extremely remarkable. It will undoubtedly be a night to remember,” Yahia adds.