Opera San José is bringing Puccini’s beloved opera Madama Butterfly to the California Theatre in San José this November. With an expert cast, creative direction by Michelle Ainna Cuizon, and musical leadership by Joseph Marcheso, the production promises to deliver a moving and immersive operatic experience. Patrons can enjoy Italian performances with English and Spanish supertitles over five scheduled dates.
Opera San José Announces Madama Butterfly for November 2025
Opera San José, known for delivering world-class productions, has announced its staging of Giacomo Puccini’s Madama Butterfly, running from November 16 to November 30, 2025, at the historic California Theatre in San José, California. This production is part of Opera San José’s 42nd season, exploring the theme of love through timeless operatic masterpieces.
This iconic work continues to captivate audiences worldwide with its story of love, betrayal, and cultural conflict, making it one of the most performed operas globally.
Performance Schedule and Tickets
Opera San José will present Madama Butterfly across five performances:
- Sunday, November 16, 2025 – 2:00 PM
- Friday, November 21, 2025 – 7:30 PM
- Sunday, November 23, 2025 – 2:00 PM
- Friday, November 29, 2025 – 2:00 PM
- Sunday, November 30, 2025 – 2:00 PM
Tickets became available for sale on June 17, 2025 through Opera San José’s official website. Subscribers enjoy early access and discounts of up to 25% on single tickets. The company encourages patrons to secure tickets early, as Madama Butterfly is one of the most popular operas in its repertoire.
About Puccini’s Masterpiece: Madama Butterfly
Madama Butterfly is a three-act opera composed by Giacomo Puccini, with a libretto by Luigi Illica and Giuseppe Giacosa. It premiered at La Scala in Milan on February 17, 1904, and has since become a staple in the global operatic canon.
Set in early 20th-century Japan, the opera tells the story of Cio-Cio-San, a young Japanese woman who marries American naval officer Lieutenant Pinkerton. The narrative explores themes of love, hope, betrayal, and cultural misunderstanding, creating a deeply emotional experience that resonates with audiences to this day.
Opera San José’s rendition will be sung in Italian, accompanied by English and Spanish supertitles, allowing attendees to follow the story while experiencing the music in its original language. The full performance, including intermissions, is approximately three hours in length.
Creative Team Behind the Production
Director: Michelle Ainna Cuizon
Michelle Ainna Cuizon, Opera San José’s resident stage director, will helm this production. Cuizon is recognized for her innovative and thoughtful interpretations, bringing emotional depth and clarity to operatic storytelling.
Conductor: Joseph Marcheso
Joseph Marcheso, a seasoned conductor with extensive opera and symphonic experience, will lead the orchestra. Under his guidance, audiences can expect a rich, nuanced musical performance, highlighting Puccini’s dramatic and lyrical genius.
The combination of Cuizon’s direction and Marcheso’s musical leadership ensures a vivid and emotionally compelling production.
Venue: California Theatre, San José
The California Theatre provides an intimate and historic setting for opera performances, enhancing the audience’s connection to the story. Located at 345 South First Street, it is easily accessible for San José residents and visitors alike.
Doors open 90 minutes before curtain, offering ample time to find seating, enjoy pre-show discussions, and listen to live organ performances. For matinee shows, doors open at 12:30 PM, with a pre-show discussion at 1:00 PM. For evening performances, doors open at 6:00 PM, with a 6:30 PM pre-show discussion. The venue’s historic architecture and acoustics provide an unparalleled operatic experience.
Why You Should Attend
Opera San José’s production of Madama Butterfly promises to be a must-see event for opera lovers and newcomers alike.
Highlights include:
- Timeless Storytelling: Experience the emotional journey of Cio-Cio-San and Lieutenant Pinkerton.
- World-Class Talent: Led by Michelle Ainna Cuizon and Joseph Marcheso, with a skilled ensemble cast.
- Immersive Experience: Italian performances with English and Spanish supertitles make the opera accessible to a wide audience.
- Historic Venue: The California Theatre enhances the connection between performers and audience.
This production provides a unique opportunity to witness one of the most beloved operas in an intimate and engaging setting, making it a highlight of the fall arts season in San José.
Ticketing and Subscription Benefits
Tickets are available online at Opera San José’s official website. Subscribers can enjoy:
- Early access to tickets before the general public.
- Discounts up to 25% off single ticket prices.
- Preferred seating options for multiple productions during the season.
Opera San José encourages fans to purchase tickets early, as Madama Butterfly consistently attracts large audiences.
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FAQs
Q1: What are the dates for Opera San José’s Madama Butterfly?
The opera runs from November 16 to November 30, 2025, with five scheduled performances.
Q2: Where is Opera San José located?
Performances take place at the California Theatre, 345 South First Street, San José, CA.
Q3: How long is the performance?
The production runs approximately three hours, including intermissions.
Q4: In what language will the opera be performed?
The opera is performed in Italian, with English and Spanish supertitles.
Q5: Who is directing and conducting this production?
Michelle Ainna Cuizon is the stage director, and Joseph Marcheso is the conductor.
Q6: How can I purchase tickets?
Tickets are available through Opera San José’s official website. Subscribers enjoy early access and discounts.
Q7: Are there pre-show activities?
Yes, pre-show discussions are held 30 minutes before curtain, and live organ performances occur 30 minutes before each performance.
Q8: Why is Madama Butterfly considered a must-see opera?
It combines Puccini’s beautiful music with a compelling story of love and cultural conflict, making it one of the most iconic operas worldwide.
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