A lovely geisha’s heart flutters for Pinkerton, the American sailor she weds. Even after three years without a word from him, Madama Butterfly faithfully awaits his return, holding onto her dreams of love and their child she named Sorrow. When at last he arrives, Butterfly discovers he has married someone else. Her fragile heart shattered, she must find a way to soar above disgrace and restore her honor.

With sets that evoke the charm of a Nagasaki village, this Arizona Opera production features Shu-Ying Li in the title role of Puccini’s beloved opera. The most sought-after interpreter of Madama Butterfly in North America, Li brings joy, heartbreak and full-throated passion to one of opera’s most iconic parts. Sung in Italian with English surtitles.

February 4, 7:30 p.m. & February 5, 2 p.m.

Madama Butterfly