FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
CONTACT: Nelya Coomans
Mission Opera
nelya@missionopera.com
661-247-0777
Mission Opera partners with Serata Italiana to produce “Madama Butterfly”
February 22-24, 2024
The collaboration brings authentic Italian opera, culture, and awareness for the Arts to Santa Clarita and beyond.
SANTA CLARITA, Calif. — Mission Opera, a nonprofit organization dedicated to producing high-quality, accessible opera and musical theater, together with the Serata Italiana language and culture program, are excited to announce the upcoming production of Giacomo Puccini’s classic opera, “Madama Butterfly.”
This timeless tale of unrequited love, set against the backdrop of Nagasaki, Japan will be sung in the original Italian with English supertitles projected above the stage at Canyon High School Performing Arts Center, 19300 Nadal St, in Santa Clarita, from February 22-24.
Madama Butterfly is one of the most popular Italian operas of all time, says Dr. Joshua Wentz, Artistic and Executive Director of Mission Opera. In fact, it’s the sixth most performed opera in the world and for good reason – it’s a timeless tale of love, tragedy, passion, and drama with glorious music that soars.
With Director Christian Catena from Rome, Italy, and Conductor Giovanni Pompeo from Matera, Italy, at the helm, this fully-staged production with orchestra promises to deliver an unforgettable, authentic experience. The show’s principal cast features internationally acclaimed performers Lisa Houben and Keiko Clark as Cio-Cio San, Hugo Vera, and Chris Anderson as Pinkerton, as well as Gabriel Manro and Joshua Wentz as Sharpless.
In an effort to enhance the audience’s cultural immersion, Santa Clarita-based Serata Italiana is working closely with Mission Opera to provide expert resources and support. Serata Italiana Founder Alex Concas is not only an Italian native, but also has extensive experience bringing arts education to underserved children worldwide through the Oksana® Foundation and Oksana® Management Group, run by him and his wife/business partner, world-renowned pianist-turned-entrepreneur Oksana Kolesnikova. Together, they believe the power of music can help children shape a better future.
I am thrilled to have the opportunity to join forces with Dr. Joshua Wentz for such a special cause. Music has always had an important role in my life, and to be able to promote this beautiful endeavor within our circles makes me feel very special and privileged – says Alex Concas, founder of Serata Italiana and co-founder of Oksana Management Group, Inc.
General admission for “Madama Butterfly” starts at $27, with discounted student and senior tickets available for all tiers except VIP. Run time is 140 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission, with show times at 3:00 pm and 7:30 pm.
Both Mission Opera and Serata Italiana are available for interviews to discuss more about the upcoming production, the importance of fostering the arts in the community, and the growing demand for this type of programming.
For media inquiries, contact Nelya Coomans at nelya@missionopera.com or (661)247-0777.
For more information and ticket sales visit www.missionopera.com.
About Mission Opera
Mission Opera is a nonprofit organization committed to bringing world-class performances to the Santa Clarita Valley. Through education and outreach programs, the organization aims to enrich the community and foster a deeper appreciation for the performing arts. Learn more on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and www.missionopera.com.
About Serata Italiana
Serata Italiana is an expert Italian language and culture program for students of all levels. The online and in-person lessons, combined with unique and authentic cuisine served at every class, foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for Italian culture and prepare students for real-world interactions. Learn more at serataitaliana.club.