A girl, dressed to represent Madame Butterfly, tells the story of the
opera while appropriate bits of the score are being played.
Use an end or corner of the room and decorate it to represent a
Japanese garden or interior. A Japanese screen as a background, one or
two low-hanging lanterns, lighted, a rug and several vivid cushions on
the floor, some cherry blossoms or a low bowl of Japanese flowers make
a very suitable and effective setting. Madame Butterfly, dressed in a
pale gray or wisteria Japanese kimono and brilliant obi (sash), enters
with short, pattering steps. She wears a chrysanthemum in her hair
and perhaps she carries a Japanese fan. She kneels upon the cushions
and bows in oriental fashion to her audience. After the prelude to
the opera, she begins the tale of Madame Butterfly. The story must be
simply and vividly told, bringing out its pathos and charm. When she
finishes she bows again to the audience, rises and makes her exit with
the same little pattering steps.
Oriental bow: Kneel on both knees and bend directly forward so that the
head almost touches the ground; then slowly assume an erect position.
If the narrator can sing one or two selections from the opera,
especially the famous solo “One Fine Day,” of course it adds
tremendously. It is very important that the music harmonize with the
words, which necessitates careful selection and practice. Probably only
an accomplished musician with a feeling for atmosphere can successfully
do this.
The following song and dance can follow Madame Butterfly’s story.