Karel Mark Chichon made his debut at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York, one of the world’s most prestigious opera houses, on Friday 19th February where he conducted Puccini’s Madama Butterfly. He will be conducting the entire run of thirteen performances of the acclaimed production by the late Anthony Mighella until mid-April. This will include a performance on 2nd April which will be broadcast live on HD via satellite into at least 2,000 cinemas in 66 countries, including more than 800 U.S. theatres reaching many millions of people worldwide. The cast includes Roberto Alagna as Pinkerton and Kristine Opolais as Butterfly.
His debut has been met by critical and public acclaim alike:-
New York Times – Zachary Wolfe, Chief Music Critic
“Ana Maria Martinez’s artful restraint was matched by those around her, including the conductor Karel Mark Chichon, who made his company debut with a performance that kept the drama flowing inexorably forward, cutting the saccharine without stinting on Puccini’s lushness.”
New York Observer – James Jorden
Mr. Chichon’s debut demonstrated he is a very fine artist, able to coax delicate impressionistic tone color from the massive Met orchestra. Madama Butterfly is one of the world’s most popular operas, but it doesn’t play itself; it takes a perceptive maestro like Mr. Chichon to present this score at its best”.
New York Sports Day – Joe Mcdonald
“Also making a strong debut was conductor Karel Mark Chichon, who will be leading the orchestra throughout the season”.
