‘Madama Butterfly’ at the Lyric Opera of Chicago

Brian Jagde starts the new year with his return to the Lyric Opera of Chicago, singing Pinkerton in Puccini’s Madama Butterfly. These performances will mark the 16th time Lyric has presented Madama Butterfly. A revival of Michael Grandage’s production, Mr. Jagde sings opposite star-soprano Ana María Martínez as Cio-Cio-San, which he previously shared the stage with at the Houston Grand Opera in Rusalka.

Performances will take place on February 6, 9, 14, 17, 21, 24, 29, and March 5 & 8. Henrik Nánási conducts the Lyric Opera Orchestra and Chorus. The production features a sparkling cast, including Deborah Nansteel as Suzuki, Anthony Clark Evans as Sharpless, and Rodell Rosel as Goro. Mr. Jagde’s last appearance as Pinkerton earned glowing reviews in his house debut at the Washington National Opera:

“… tenor Brian Jagde is in the trenches, battling to preserve and perpetuate the legacy of important American tenors epitomized by Richard Tucker. Jagde’s Pinkerton in WNO’s Madama Butterfly was a burst of raw virility … his nuanced acting and superb singing transformed his Pinkerton from a hedonistic rake into a man sensitive enough to recoil from the blood on his conscience.” (Voix des Arts)

Photo Credit: Simon Pauly