Cambodia’s Sethisak Khuon to Sing in Madame Butterfly Opera

Cambodian tenor Sethisak Khuon will be part of a star-studded opera performance – directed by Prince Ravivaddhana Monipong Sisowath and Vincenzo Grisostomi Travaglini – at Koh Pich in December
Cambodian opera singer Sethisak Khuon
Cambodian opera singer Sethisak Khuon

Cambodian opera singer Sethisak Khuon and other artists would be fronting a Phnom Penh-based production in the “one-of-a-kind performance” of Italian opera masterpiece Madame Butterfly at Koh Pich Theatre this December.

Performed under the artistic direction of HRH Prince Ravivaddhana Monipong Sisowath and renowned stage director Vincenzo Grisostomi Travaglini, the opera will feature more than 70 performers, including a symphony orchestra and choir.

Sethisak will be joined by an international cast of Italian and Japanese artists, such as Yasuko Fuji, Ai Iwasaki and Enrico Terrone Guerra, according to a statement by Soundskool Music.

Italian Gabriele Faja, production director, said by bringing Madame Butterfly to Cambodia, they hope to showcase Cambodia's artistic and cultural talents.

“We have already seen the country's organisational and sporting talents during the SEA Games, which also reminded us of Cambodia's rich culture,” Faja added.

“By featuring Cambodian stars and international artists performing in a major opera, we also aim to show everyone that the Kingdom of Cambodia has plenty to offer.”

Italian opera masterpiece Madame Butterfly
Italian opera masterpiece Madame Butterfly

The opera will also celebrate the 70th anniversary of Japan-Cambodia diplomatic relations and is currently seeking corporate sponsors.

It is building on the support it has already received from partners, including the Embassy of Italy in Thailand, Diamond Island Convention and Exhibition Center, Soundskool Music, The Piano Shop Cambodia, the ICBA Arts Committee and Design Director Juveris Tenisons.

According to Soundskool, tickets will open for sale at the beginning August through Last2Ticket, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to experience the “extraordinary” cultural event.

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sangeetha.amarthalingam@kiripost.com