Puccini’s Madama Butterfly opened up last Thursday night to a sold-out crowd in Vancouver, at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre.I went with Rosa, my regular opera date, as she’s an opera-enthusiast and knows all, or at least most, of the arias. It’s always a pleasure to attend with her and we always do a toast before the show.
This opera was my first ever opera that my late husband took me to years back. The title then was only one vowel difference; Madame (instead of Madama) Butterfly. The difference between the names is primarily the title and adaptation of the story. Madame Butterfly refers to the original shortstory by John Luther Long, which inspired Puccini’s opera, but Madama Butterfly is the correct Italian title.
Okay; I’m glad we got that straight!
Karen Chia-ling Ho as Cio-Cio-San in Vancouver Opera’s 2025 production of Madama Butterfly. Photo by Emily Cooper Photography.
Another gut-wrenching story; Madama Butterfly is widely considered one of the greatest works in operatic history. Puccini’s deeply emotional story and music is moving and steers us through all the operatic elements of love, heartbreak, hope, and tragedy.
The opera tells the tragic story of Cio-Cio-San, a young Japanese geisha, who falls in love with Lieutenant Pinkerton, an American naval officer stationed in Nagasaki. They marry, but for Pinkerton, it’s only a marriage of convenience, a touristic fantasy abroad before he finds himself a “real” (American) bride. Cio-Cio-San remains devoted to him, only to be abandoned, leading to a heartbreaking conclusion. You might want to bring kleenex.
Karen Chia-ling Ho as Cio-Cio-San and Adam Luther as Pinkerton in Vancouver Opera’s 2025 production of Madama Butterfly. Photo by Emily Cooper Photography.Vancouver Opera’s 2025 production of Madama Butterfly. Photo by Emily Cooper Photography.
The themes of love, betrayal, and cultural clashes have made Madama Butterfly one of the most frequently performed operas worldwide.
The cast was unbelievably talented. The live VSO orchestra is also a treat to behold and we’re lucky to have them.
Last Thursday night I attended the eclectic opening night of ART VANCOUVER with my friend Rosa – a contemporary art fair now approaching its 9th edition. It’s happening all weekend long at the Vancouver Convention Centre – link below.
Since Art, for the most part, is open for individual interpretation, I guess you can say that there’s something to appeal to everyone’s taste here – or almost everyone.
There was a lot to take in while walking around the large space. I especially enjoyed the unique and interesting sculptures represented. I respect the artistry, even though most were not something I would be interested in purchasing for myself. You’ve got to admire the workmanship that goes into these astounding pieces. Plus, there’s always a story behind them.
By Stefan Rogenmoser
One of my favourite exhibits turned out to be the Bryan Adams & Ape Art from “Save the Chimps Sanctuary” – a 150 acre sanctuary in Florida which offers life-long care for hundreds of chimpanzees rescued from labs, the pet trade, and the entertainment industry. I thought it was both brilliant and philanthropic. Plus, they’re pretty good artists and better than some others I’ve seen.
ART VANCOUVER stands as a testament to the beauty and wonder of contemporary art. Beyond thought-provoking exhibitions and stimulating conversations, the fair fosters an inclusive environment where cultural exchange thrives, strengthening Vancouver’s place as a global hub for contemporary art.
Art photos/video: d. king
See any that grab you?
The Convention Centre is located at Canada Place. Some pics from the outside:
We live in a beautiful city.
Cheers!
Stay Connected: Follow us on Instagram: @artvancouver, Facebook: @artvancouverofficial, and X: @Art_Vancouver
I saw this excellent one-woman show last night about taking risks and enjoying the small moments in life and the ride along the way. It’s about the journey in general and our strong striving for some form of connection.
Photo courtesy of Arts Club Theatre.
It resonated with me in the sense that it made me think about the difference between attachment and connection. The main character’s name is Dorothy (played by Susinn McFarlen). Dorothy’s story is based on the playwright’s mother’s life. After losing her husband, she decides to take their RV on the road trip of his retirement dreams: she’s going to Burning Man. After all, it’s only a 21-hour drive to a weeklong culture festival and party with no plumbing in the middle of a desert—how hard can it be? Burning Mom is a stirring odyssey of self-discovery and tale of how art, everlasting roads, and human connection propel her along the way. McFarlen did a wonderful job of entertaining us with stories for over two hours, with one set/costume change after a short intermission.
With Lisa (my sister) celebrating her birthday at SANDBAR before the show. FYI – Sandbar offers 15% off the bill if you’re going to the Arts Club. THAT was a nice surprise! Tisha (our amazing server) took this photo.
My question is – is everyone always trying to find themselves? Are we trying to carve a path that will make us feel whole or make sense out of living? At times, I believe so.
I, myself, have never had a burning (pun intended) desire to go to this festival. It’s not that I’m not curious about Burning Man, and probably once there I’d enjoy it for what it is…but it’s not on my bucket list. Luckily, I’ve crossed a lot of stuff off my personal bucket list. And it’s not a great idea to live someone else’s dream. Although I did live my late mother’s dream trip of going on safari. With my sister no less. What a bittersweet experience that was.
Getting back to the play; the only connection I have to this play is that my late husband had a Eurovan Camper that he loved and that we used a lot. I didn’t love it as much but I ended up enjoying his enjoyment of it. There were many special places we ended up discovering with that little camper. However, after he passed, I tried to keep it and learn how to drive stick shift which didn’t work out so well in the end. I had some similar parking experiences as the performer in this play. Some funny; some not. I ended up selling it. So in essence I was hanging on to it because of his (not my) love of camping. Hanging on to someone else’s love of something is a form of attachment.
Anyway, I was recently discussing the difference between attachment and connection with a friend. The difference lies in their nature and depth. Although I must say that I feel both an attachment and a connection to my dogs.
Attachment often stems from a need or dependency. It can involve clinging to someone or something for comfort, security, or emotional support. While attachment can feel strong, it may be rooted in fear—fear of loss, change, or being alone. It can sometimes create unhealthy dynamics if it becomes possessive or overly dependent.
Connection, on the other hand, is more about mutual understanding, resonance, and genuine presence. It doesn’t rely on need or fear but instead arises from shared experiences, values, and emotional attunement. A connection feels freeing, nurturing, and balanced—it’s about being with someone, not needing to hold on tightly.
Interesting, no? How many things are you attached to and how many are you connected to?
“The past few weeks have been an incredible whirlwind of adventures, unforgettable moments, and unexpected surprises.
I met a fellow Capricorn at KaleidoscopeDesert just outside Joshua Tree.
As I look back, it feels like a vivid tapestry of experiences worth revisiting—and what better way to share them than through this post?”
Big Bird following me:
I visited Kaleidoscope Desert, a one-of-a-kind 5-acre animal and art sanctuary in Yucca Valley, just outside of Joshua Tree. This place is a magical desert artscape where you can meet and mingle with free-roaming animals including a Zebra, Emus, Mini Cows, Mini Horses, Peacocks, a 50-year-old Tortoise, lots of Dogs, Cats, Turkeys, Pigs, Chickens, Guinea Fowl, Guinea Pigs, and more! Everything on the property is donated or repurposed, but all the animals have a purpose.
With my longtime fellow-ex-Montrealer friend Natalia. She lives in L.A. now but came to visit me in Palm Springs. We’re at Azucar restaurant at La Serena Villas.
Natalia with the Hummingbirds:
Of course we can’t leave Palm Springs wthout the annual “Wally’s Desert Turtle” Friday Fashion Luncheon Here with Kathy, Tammy, Mini, Erika, me +Candy.
And I love that the models + musicians walk around the tables.Sheila Hamilton (five-time Emmy Award–winning journalist and author) signing my “PALM SPRINGS” by Assouline hardcover book at “Just Fabulous.” The book is absolutely stunning, as one would only expect from this luxury lifestyle company that produces exceptionally crafted books.
Speaking of Books:
I thoroughly enjoyed joining the “Poolside Pages” book club. Especially with a fabulous group of women (and one man) in Kiki’s lovely home.
“THE SNOWBIRDS” was our last book. So appropriate. Written by an actual Palm Springs Snowbird. Photo: David Wallace Crotty.
Then there were several gatherings in various places for the “Canadians in Bars Getting Cocktails.” We allowed some Americans to join us too.
This was at Canopy Wine Lounge for their “Jungle-theme Party” It was a blast. With Kathy, Tammy, Mini + Ramona. Of course we get silly all the time sometimes.
Friends visiting from Vancouver. My late friend Colleen’s sister with her husband + daughter. By the way, we do eat too. But the cocktails are so good.
Went back to Bar Cecil with Kathy. She had never been. It’s very hard to get a reservation.With Tammy at Tropicale.After attempting for almost two years to get together with both Libby & Megan (they’re busy women), we finally managed to have lunch. Here at the Avalon Hotel & Bungalows. By the way, Orange is the new Black.
Here are the links to the places described here (except Kiki’s house + the Hummingbird location as it’s outside a private residence):
I went with Rosa, my regular opera date, as she’s an opera-enthusiast and knows all, or at least most, of the arias. It’s always a pleasure to attend with her and we always do a toast before the show.
Girl Who Would be KING on Life, Style and INSPIRATION. 
You must be logged in to post a comment.