Tel-Aviv Celebrates 20th Anniversary of Annual “Opera in the Park” Tradition with a Special Production of Madame Butterfly

19th July 2023 Tel-Aviv Celebrates 20th Anniversary of Annual “Opera in the Park” Tradition with a Special Production of Madame Butterfly

Thursday | August 3rd, 2023, | Ganne Yehushua Park | Doors open: 7:00 pm | Show starts: 8:30 |  Free Entry On August 3rd, the Municipality of Tel Aviv-Yafo, in collaboration with the Israeli Opera, will continue the tradition of free opera productions at Ganne Yehushua Park with a special production of the beloved opera, Madame Butterfly. Produced by renowned Italian composer Giacomo Puccini, Madame Butterfly is among the greatest operas of all time. In accordance with long-standing tradition, the event will be moderated by the mayor of Tel Aviv-Yafo, Ron Huldai. Ron Huldai, Mayor of Tel Aviv-Yafo: “Opera in the Park,”a 20-year Tel-Aviv tradition, that allows tens of thousands of local and international opera lovers to experience the beauty and magic of the opera beneath the starry sky in an accessible way. I created the tradition inspired by the belief that every person in the country deserves the opportunity to enjoy art, and opera in particular. I am immensely proud that this event attracts a diverse audience every year, drawing in everyone from avid fans of the opera to first timers. This year, theatregoers will undergo an emotional and artistic journey as they enjoy the timeless beauty of one of the most renowned operatic masterpieces ever composed. I implore everyone to come and enjoy the show with us this year!” Every year since its inception 20 years ago, thousands of people of all ages have flocked to Ganne Yehushua to enjoy “Opera in the Park” and take in the artistry and storytelling of the opera free of charge. Madame Butterfly, composed by Giacomo Puccini and based on the short story by John Luther Long, is considered to be one of the most famous operas of all time. The reputation and name of Madame Butterfly precede it, and not only among die-hard lovers of the opera. Several of the arias featured in the opera have become well-known in general popular culture. Madame Butterfly details the tragic tale of Cio Cio San, a young Japanese girl who falls in love with an American naval officer named Pinkerton, with devastating consequences. After they marry, Pinkerton leaves Japan, leaving her destitute, alone, and pregnant with his child. Upon his return to Japan after three years of absence, she discovers that he has married an American woman, and the couple wants to adopt her child. She chooses to preserve her dignity and take her own life, allowing her son to be left with his father and father’s wife. The opera will be conducted by Dan Ettinger, the musical director of the Israeli Opera. It will be directed by Gadi Schecter, who has directed previous iterations of “Opera in the Park.” Much of the talented cast hails from the Israeli Opera, including soprano singer Alla Vasilevitsky in the titular role, baritone Oded Reich in the role of Sharpless, mezzo-soprano Shay Bloch, and tenor Joseph Dennis. The opera will also feature dancers. The Israeli Opera Choir will be accompanied by the Israeli Rishon LeZion Symphony Orchestra. Madame Butterfly in Ganne Yehushua Par Thursday | August 3rd, 2023 | Doors open: 7:00 | Show starts: 8:30 Conductor: Dan Ettinger Director: Gadi Schecter Set and Costume Designer: Niv Manor Lightning Designer: Eyal Levy Sharon Choreographer: Kim Gordon Video Designer: Yoav Cohen Sound Designer: Yuval Zilberstein Cast: Madame Butterfly: Alla Vasilevitsky Lt. Pinkerton: Joseph Dennis Sharpless: Oded Reich Suzuki: Shay Bloch Goro: Eitan Drori Keith Pinkerton: Gal Kohav The Bonze: Yair Polishook Imperial Commissioner: Shahaf Regev Dolore: Eli Nachmani The Israeli Opera Choir Conducted by Itai Berkovitch The Opera Orchestra: The Israeli Symphony Orchestra Rishon LeZion Translation Subtitle: Israel Yuval Photo Credit: Yossi Zavkar ABOUT TEL AVIV GLOBAL & TOURISM Tel Aviv Global & Tourism is a municipal company under the Mayor's Office. It facilitates the global quantum leap taken by the city of Tel Aviv-Yafo in creating economic and tourism growth. Sammy Yahia Director of Tourism India and Philippines “Israel is a country with a rich cultural, historical, and religious heritage, and is home to a variety of attractions that offer something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or just looking for a unique experience, Israel is a destination that is sure to deliver”. According to Sammy Yahia, ““Opera in the Park" is a beautiful tradition which we have had for the past 20 years. This offers the people the possibility to enjoy opera in a more relaxing and enjoyable environment beneath Tel Aviv's starry sky. Everyone can attend the event and fully enjoy themselves while taking in the art. The fact that we will be hosting a Special Production of Madame Butterfly makes this occasion extremely remarkable. It will undoubtedly be a night to remember.” About Israel: Whether road trips, city trips, swimming, wellness, active and cultural trips, rental car tours or family vacations, the Israeli State Tourist Office provides information about the various regions, cities, and sights in the Holy Land. Located in the eastern Mediterranean, Israel is no more than a seven-hour flight from India. The country offers a sunny climate, a wide variety of historical, archaeological, and religious sites, including houses several UNESCO World Heritage sites across the country, displaying an intriguing contrast between the ancient and modern periods. Experience the dynamic vibe of Israel. For information about the different tourism offerings, visit www.goisrael.in For the most up to date information on the guidelines and requirements for entering Israel, visit https://israelsafe.com For more information reach out to us at info-israel@goisrael.gov.il or 022 61370700 .