Vol 2.2 Backstage with E. Loren Meeker: Madama Butterfly

Описание: "This is a podcast about music with no fixed format—I talk about music, share my thoughts, and explore the studies, work, life, and ideas of musicians. I'll also invite my friends for casual, fun conversations about topics that matter to us. And of course, you're welcome to leave a comment and let me know what you'd like to hear!I want to talk about everything related to music and musicians. I also hope to create a space where everyone can connect and exchange ideas. Most of all, I hope this podcast can be a companion to you."

🦋 Madama Butterfly


April 25–27 at the Long Center, Austin


🎟️ Get your tickets here! (https://austinopera.org/shows-events/...)


Guest: E. Loren Meeker


General & Artistic Director, OPERA San Antonio (https://www.operasa.org/)


Host: Beatrice Huang


I've always wondered how can we make traditional opera productions truly special?


I think I found answer in E. Loren Meeker's Madama Butterfly.


The attention to acting, the cultural detail woven into every moment. I was amazed by how layered each character felt. Even Pinkerton and Goro had moments of charm. The tragedy felt human, with moments of humor, just like life itself—vivid, complex, and real.


I was glad to sit behind Loren's tech table, watching two orchestra dress rehearsals, and to have this thoughtful conversation with her.


We talked about many aspects, from character development and working with cultural consultants to scenic design and the casting process. Loren also shared the strategies she uses as General & Artistic Director of OPERA San Antonio to grow opera's reach and build warm, collaborative teams.


00:00 Highlights


On Madama Butterfly


01:22 Introduction


02:17 Building Characters: Depth and Cultural Sensitivity


07:47 Working with Cultural Consultants: Momo & Kevin Suzuki


12:38 A Groundbreaking Partnership: Austin Opera × Opera San Antonio


17:43 Exploring Raked Scenic Design


24:10 Casting Madama Butterfly: Artistic Choices and Cultural Responsibility


On Directing and Leadership Approach


30:13 Research Process Behind Production


34:14 Managing Detailed Work in Limited Rehearsals


37:06 Helping Singers Improve Stage Presence


39:31 What Makes Opera Unique


42:31 Growing Opera's Audience: Strategies as General & Artistic Director


45:41 Female Role Model Francesca Zambello's Influence


48:33 Building a Warm and Supportive Team


51:18 ED: Puccini: Madama Butterfly, Act I: Vogliatemi bene – Vieni, vieni! (Love Duet) · Mirella Freni · Luciano Pavarotti · Wiener Philharmoniker · Herbert von Karajan · Giacomo Puccini


As a young director still learning and finding my own path, I feel so fortunate to have inspiring female role models like Loren lighting the way forward.


I hope this episode brings you the same spark of inspiration it gave me.


If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, like, and leave a comment!


(With Loren and Lighting Designer Marcella Barbeau)