PUCCINI'S Madama Butterfly is one of the world's most popular and beautiful operas.

Ellen Kent's production tells the heart-breaking story of a beautiful, young Japanese Geisha who falls in love with an American lieutenant, B.F. Pinkerton.

However, as Madama Butterfly expresses her delight in being married and her love for her new husband, the audience learns of Pinkerton's plans to abandon her after his tour of duty is over and find himself a proper' American bride.

Ignoring advice from his mentor and the feelings of the woman who has given up her family, friends and religion to stand by his side, Pinkerton plans his escape.

Yet as he demonstrates his love for his new bride through the stunning duets But now, beloved, you are the world and Ah! Night of Rapture the audience is left questioning whether he could really hurt such a delicate young woman.

The stunning set depicting an exquisite Japanese garden certainly provided the perfect backdrop for a striking and moving performance, while English subtitles on a small digital screen offered a welcome explanation of the narrative.

And the intensity of the music supported by two powerful leads had the audience enthralled by the tale - so much so that Lieutenant Pinkerton was greeted with a chorus boos and jeers as he came to take his final bow!