Lyric Opera of Chicago’s “Madama Butterfly” Takes Flight with Modern Production

Lyric Opera of Chicago’s 2025/26 season continues with Giacomo Puccini’s classic tragedy, Madama Butterfly, on stage from March 14 – April 12, 2026. This production features a bold reimagining by director Matthew Ozawa, exploring new layers of meaning within the iconic story.

A New Lens on a Beloved Opera

Ozawa’s production aims to challenge conventional interpretations of Madama Butterfly, prompting audiences to question their understanding of the opera’s narrative. The staging is described as grand and visually stunning, whereas simultaneously offering fresh perspectives on the well-known tale of Cio-Cio-San, known as Madama Butterfly, and her ill-fated love for the American naval officer, B.F. Pinkerton.

Cast and Creative Team

Soprano Karah Son makes her Lyric Opera debut in the title role of Madama Butterfly, alongside tenor Evan LeRoy Johnson, also in his Lyric debut, as Pinkerton. Mezzo-soprano Nozomi Kato and baritone Zachary Nelson will also make their Lyric debuts as Suzuki and Sharpless, respectively. Rodell Rosel, a Lyric favorite, will portray Goro. Domingo Hindoyan will conduct the Lyric Opera Orchestra.

Notably, the production features an all-Japanese, all-female design team: set designer dots, costume designer Maiko Matsushima, and lighting designer Yuki Nakase Link. This collaboration brings a unique and unprecedented perspective to the opera’s visual elements.

Performance Details

Madama Butterfly will be sung in Italian with projected English titles. The running time is 2 hours and 55 minutes, including one intermission. Performances will be held at the Lyric Opera House in Chicago. More information and tickets are available on the Lyric Opera of Chicago website.

First Look at the Production

Photos from the production have been released, offering a glimpse of the staging and costumes. View the photos on BroadwayWorld Chicago. A video preview is also available on YouTube: Madama Butterfly at Lyric Opera in Chicago – YouTube.

Audiences can delve deeper into the production with engaging articles, director’s notes, a plot synopsis, and artist bios in the Madama Butterfly program book.