I went to see Florida Grand Opera’s production of Madama Butterfly last night. Wow.

I have never been a huge opera fan; my favorites are Porgy and Bess and Candide, neither of which fall into the category of “classic opera.” And I think the last time I saw one on an opera stage was The Marriage of Figaro in 1968.

But last night’s production was amazing, and thanks to the English translation projected above the stage, I could follow the plot. The music is legendary, and the cast rose to the task. Eva Jenis was brilliant as Butterfly, and Andrew Richards played Pinkerton, the American navy officer, with a caddish swagger. The scenery and lighting provided the perfect understated environment for the story.

All in all, it was a wonderful evening, and while I am not a complete opera convert (you’ll never get me to sit through a Wagnerian marathon), I have a new appreciation for the art form.