Madama Butterfly

Madama Butterfly in Sydney is Puccini’s sweeping tale of Cio-Cio-San, a young woman whose hopes for a new life collide with the indifference of U.S. naval officer Pinkerton. Driven by Puccini’s richly textured score, from the fragile lyricism of the Humming Chorus to the operatic heights of Un bel dì, the opera offers an emotionally direct experience that resonates long after the final scene. This Sydney season revives Moffatt Oxenbould’s award-winning staging, known for its floating-flower moat, sliding shoji screens, and design inspired by Japanese aesthetics. International talents, including Guanqun Yu, Vittoria Yeo, Olivia Cranwell, Oreste Cosimo, and Robert Watson, lead the cast, joined by Australian Opera regulars under the batons of Andrea Battistoni, Erina Yashima, and Paul Fitzsimon. With strong critical acclaim across seasons, this revival continues to draw both long-time opera lovers and first-timers.

The Story

Set in early 20th-century Nagasaki, Madama Butterfly follows Cio-Cio-San, a young woman who believes her marriage to American officer Pinkerton will bring stability and respect. Their bond, however, is built on unequal expectations: her devotion contrasts with his casual detachment. As she builds a future around his promised return, those around her warn of the dangers of misplaced faith. Across ritual, silence, and anticipation, the opera builds toward a devastating confrontation between hope and reality. When Pinkerton’s ship finally returns to port, Cio-Cio-San must face a truth she has long refused to see. Will her resolve hold when everything she built begins to fracture?

Show Timings

Show timings for Madama Butterfly may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.

Cast & Crew

• Leading roles:
  
• Director: Moffatt Oxenbould AM
• Composer: Giacomo Puccini
• Conductors: Andrea Battistoni (Jan 3–24, Mar 7–14), Paul Fitzsimon (Jan 29–Feb 4, Mar 18–25), and Erina Yashima (Feb 7–Mar 3)
• Set & costume designers: Russell Cohen and Peter England
• Lighting designer: Robert Bryan
• Movement & revival director: Matthew Barclay

• This show is suitable for all ages.
• Content warning: The production contains some adult themes.
• Age suitability recommendations are just suggestions. So, trust your judgment when booking tickets for any show, and enjoy!

Tickets Redemption

• You’ll get an instant email confirmation right after you book your tickets.
• Enjoy a hassle-free entrance to the venue by showing your mobile ticket and a valid photo ID – no printout necessary!

Cancellation & Refunds

• Tickets cannot be refunded, amended, or rescheduled.

• Address: Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
• Train: The nearest station is Circular Quay, a 7–10 minute walk to the Opera House.
• Ferry & light rail: Circular Quay interchange offers ferry services and L2 light rail connections.
• Bus: Routes stopping at Circular Quay include 343, 396, 392X, 333, and multiple Northern Beaches services.

Available facilities: restrooms, cloakroom, Bars, foyer lounges, water refill stations, café, onsite dining at the Opera House precinct

Accessibility: accessible restrooms, companion seating, Wheelchair-accessible seating, lift access, hearing-assist devices, step-free routes, mobility drop-off points near the forecourt

• Security: To ensure your comfort and security, you might encounter a few security checks when you arrive at the venue.
• Dress code: Smart casual or semi-formal attire is the way to go.
• Outside food: While outside food isn't usually allowed, many theaters have cafes or restaurants nearby for you to check out before or after the show.