Madame Butterfly is the classic tale of a love gone terribly wrong, which is kind of a bummer. But Houston Ballet is presenting the tragic story of the delicate Japanese beauty and her American husband for free, which is pretty cool. When Cio-Cio-San (Madame Butterfly), an innocent 15-year-old, marries the easy-come, easy-go Lieutenant Pinkerton, she turns herself completely over to a new life ย cutting all ties to her family and religion. But her sacrifice doesnยt keep Pinkerton from abandoning her and their son. When Pinkerton finally does return, he has his American wife in tow. Together they want to adopt Butterflyยs son. Realizing the depth of her husbandยs betrayal, she agrees to turn over her son and, left alone, commits suicide, bringing the tragedy to a close. The Houston Balletยs choreography adds beauty and grace to the story, making it well worth the asking price. 8 p.m. Friday to Saturday. 100 Concert Drive, in Hermann Park. For information and tickets, call 281-373-3386 or visit www.milleroutdoortheatre.com. Free.
Sat., May 10, 8 p.m.; Sun., May 11, 8 p.m., 2008
This article appears in May 8-14, 2008.