ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Mariko Mori designs abstract sets for Puccini's Madama Butterfly at La Fenice

exhibition · 2026-05-05

Teatro La Fenice in Venice will unveil a new rendition of Giacomo Puccini's Madama Butterfly on June 21, 2013, following a press preview on June 19. This performance will continue until June 30, with plans for a revival in October and a recurring schedule every two years for five to six years, typically paired with Tosca and La Bohème. The production, led by conductor Omar MeirWellber and director Álex Rigola, showcases set and costume designs by Japanese artist Mariko Mori. Initiated by Biennale president Paolo Baratta and La Fenice superintendent Cristiano Chiarot, Mori’s abstract visuals represent the harmony between Eastern and Western cultures. The portrayal of Butterfly emphasizes her strength and highlights themes of empowerment and the bond between beauty and nature.

Key facts

  • New production of Madama Butterfly premieres at Teatro La Fenice in Venice on June 21, 2013.
  • Press preview on June 19, 2013.
  • Runs until June 30, revived in October, and returns every two years for 5-6 years.
  • Part of a Puccini trilogy with Tosca and La Bohème for weekend tourists.
  • Conducted by Omar MeirWellber, directed by Álex Rigola.
  • Sets and costumes designed by Japanese visual artist Mariko Mori.
  • Initiated by Biennale president Paolo Baratta, La Fenice superintendent Cristiano Chiarot, and artistic director Fortunato Colombina.
  • Mori describes the production as a 'unicum' and will return to her art afterward.

Entities

Artists

  • Mariko Mori
  • Giacomo Puccini
  • Álex Rigola
  • Omar MeirWellber
  • Paolo Baratta
  • Cristiano Chiarot
  • Fortunato Colombina
  • Giuseppe Pennisi

Institutions

  • Teatro La Fenice
  • Bunka Fashion College
  • Venice Biennale
  • Artribune

Locations

  • Venice
  • Italy
  • Tokyo
  • Japan
  • Nagasaki
  • Rome

Sources