Into the Harz

Goslar-Clausthal - Brocken (from Torfhaus) - Bodetal Valley of Thale - Hexentanzenplatz (place of origin of witches) - Quedlinburg - Wernigeroder

Madame Butterfly @ Staatsoper in Berlin

(Below are plainly my personal opinions, it does not represent the opinion of others.)

I like how the singer-actress, who portrayed Cho-cho (Butterfly), hold the high and soft keys and notes --- I got goosebumps.

I can relate to the story because back in Philippines, we also have similar stories, which are consequences of the American military bases we had years ago. A Filipina will never end up her life like Cho-cho. In Japan, taking one's own life can be an act of preserving honor and dignity --- in which I think is really stupid and crazy.

True, Cho-cho was too young (15 years old) when she met Pinkerton; just cannot blame her for her inexperience, ignorant, or naivety (sounds better with naive). After giving up so many things for this marriage, there is no turning back. She has to hope for the impossible, to be deaf and blind of the truth, and to keep waiting for nothing. That is the only way she can "still live". When all of these collapse, there is no more reason "to live".

It is a tragic story, but (for me) it is never a LOVE story. I do not believe that Cho-cho actually love Pinkerton as she claims. 

In general, I was not happy with the performances (acting wise) of the actors and actresses. I did not felt the emotions that I was expecting. I felt something missing, though I cannot tell exactly what is it. I hope I can get the chance to see other performances for comparison.

My cherry blossom serendipity