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0"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
Guest: E. Loren Meeker
General & Artistic Director, OPERA San Antonio
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)
