Butterfly Opera

Part of our annual summer traditions is a trip to Central City to see the Family matinee of one of their shows. This year’s opera was Madame Butterfly. Since we recently introduced one of Marina's friends to opera, we invited her join us.

We got an early start for the drive into the mountains. We arrived a bit early for the Opera Adventures part of the day. The Associate Director of Education, recognized us when we checked in. After a brief meeting in the stables, the group split in two. Our group went to the Teller House for an origami activity. Emily lead the class in making a butterfly. The girls each made two. Since origami is something Marina does all the time at home, she loved this part.

 After the origami activity, we went to the garden for the next activity. The leader talked about Painted Lady butterflies. After her introduction, she handed everyone a folded paper that contained a butterfly. The group counted down and then released their butterflies. They didn’t fly away right away, so both girls enjoyed watching the butterflies. Marina’s stayed on the paper for quite a while before it flew away.

While I went to get lunch, both girls found butterflies in garden, some on the ground, and even had some land on them. We ate lunch on the opera house patio and then gathered for the next activity. Inside the Williams Stables, we met the cultural director of Madame Butterfly. She taught everyone about Japanese culture. They learned about proper greetings and sang a folk song. We saw a demonstration on how to properly wear a kimono. Marina was thrilled to get to try one on. Last, the group learned several fan dance moves.

After the cultural lessons. We lined the street to watch the famous Usher Song. Then we went into the opera house to find our seats. Madame Butterfly is a long opera but we all enjoyed it. The girls particularly liked the little girl in the cast. The ending was tragic and we discussed the importance of honor in Japanese culture in relation to the ending.

The weather had become rainy so the meet and greet session was held inside. We spoke with several of the performers and took photos with them before heading back to the car.