Madama Butterfly is one of the most popular operas of all time, despite its disastrous premiere, after which it was immediately withdrawn and revised. This guide explores how and why the libretto was softened to suit the tastes of European opera-goers, and the different variants are set out, side by side. Professor Jean-Pierre Lehmann introduces the story and shows how the theme of a Japanese girl deserted by a heartless foreigner became a classic. Since John Luther Long's novella - on which the opera was based - is included as well, it is possible to judge how successful Puccini was in catching its essence in his hauntingly beautiful score. Contents: Images of the Orient, John-Pierre Lehmann; Tribulations of a Score, Julian Smith; Madame Butterfly, John Luther Long; Madama Butterfly: Libretto by Giuseppe Giacosa and Luigi lllica after the book by John Luther Long and the play by David Belasco; Madam Butterfly: English version based on that of R.H. Elkin

About the Author
Giacomo Puccini (1858-1924) was born in Lucca into a family of musicians and composers. His operas, which include Tosca, La Boheme, Madama Butterfly and Turandot, are among the most frequently performed in the international repertory.

Reviews
Brilliantly produced and superb value.' * Sunday Times *
All these will provide the new opera-goer with food for thought.' * Daily Telegraph *
Wholehearted recommendation of this valuable new series.' * TLS *



Book Information
ISBN 9780714544274
Author Giacomo Puccini
Format Paperback
Page Count 132
Imprint Overture Publishing
Publisher Alma Books Ltd
Weight(grams) 190g