Opera comes to Amelia Island

Amelia Island Opera is set to present one of the most beloved operas of all time, Giacomo Puccini’s "Madama Butterfly," in concert on April 4 and 6, 2025. Puccini’s heart-wrenching tale of Cio-Cio San, a young Japanese woman who falls in love with an American naval officer, Lieutenant Benjamin Franklin Pinkerton, explores themes of love, betrayal, and sacrifice.

The concert performance will feature the renowned Cuban-American soprano Elaine Alvarez, who made her breakthrough in 2007 with her powerful portrayal of Mimi in "La Boheme" at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. Recently, she returned to the Metropolitan Opera to cover the title roles in "Florencia en el Amazonas" and "Madama Butterfly." Alvarez will take center stage as Cio-Cio San.

Joining her is Korean-born mezzo-soprano Yoojin Lee as Suzuki, Butterfly’s loyal servant, with Derrek Stark portraying Lieutenant Pinkerton. John Tibbetts will perform as Sharpless, the U.S. consul, and Dylan Morrongiello will sing the role of Goro, the matchmaker who orchestrates the ill-fated union. Members of the cast have performed at major opera houses such as The Metropolitan Opera, Lyric Opera of Chicago, Glimmerglass Festival, Atlanta Opera, Arizona Opera, Opera Theatre of St. Louis, and Santa Fe Opera.

In addition, the performance will feature the Jacksonville University Singers, a professional student vocal ensemble. The 28-member chorus, prepared by Dr. Julian Bryson, Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Choral Studies at Jacksonville University, will bring a dynamic and powerful presence to the concert.

A 25-piece orchestra will accompany the singers under the baton of conductor Keith Chambers, known for his spirited leadership. Chambers has conducted over 150 opera performances, working with companies such as The Dallas Opera, Indianapolis Opera, and the Asheville Lyric Opera. He is also the Principal Guest Conductor of Manhattan Opera Studio and the Artistic Director of New Amsterdam Opera.

This concert version of "Madama Butterfly" will be sung in Italian, with English supertitles. The performance will run approximately 2 hours, including one 15-minute intermission. Note that no food or beverages, except for bottled water, will be allowed inside the venue.

Friday, April 4, 2025 | 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, April 6, 2025 | 4 p.m
Amelia Plantation Chapel | 36 Bowman Rd., Fernandina Beach
Tickets: $50 | $10 for students (Under 18 or with valid student ID)
Available at Amelia Island Opera

For more information or ticket inquiries, contact Amelia Island Opera at 904-556-7342 or via email at info@ameliaislandopera.org