My introductory lecture for this particular seminar sets up a day of exploration and critique critique Puccini’s Madama Butterfly—of one of the most popular, and also thematically challenging, works of the operatic canon. I will look at the historical background of the opera, including contemporary events that may have affected the infamously bad reception of the premiere, and also the colonialist/racially biased language and depictions of the opera’s sources and the libretto itself. Other presenters include Dr. Mariko Takahashi (CSU Fullerton, History), Dr. Rebecca Corbett (USC, East Asian Library), and koto performer Yuki Yasuda.

For the Opera for Educators seminars, Los Angeles Opera Connects brings together experts in music, history, languages, and more to lead participants on a scholarly exploration of the current Los Angeles Opera main-stage season—streaming live through Zoom to wherever you are. All are welcome to join and learn more about opera, and teachers get an extra bonus by earning LAUSD Salary Points.