In a recent New York Times review, mezzo-soprano Maria Zifchak was praised for her "superlative" portrayal of Suzuki in the Metropolitan Opera's production of "Madama Butterfly." Fortunately for us in Arizona, she performs the same role in Phoenix from Jan. 27-29 and Feb. 4 and 5 in Tucson.
Zifchak first became familiar to Arizona Opera listeners as Dorabella in the 2005 production of Mozart's "Cosi fan tutte." One of the most well-respected opera singers performing today, Zifchak has sung a varied repertoire from Handel to Britten. She currently lives in New York City.
Zifchak first became familiar to Arizona Opera listeners as Dorabella in the 2005 production of Mozart's "Cosi fan tutte." One of the most well-respected opera singers performing today, Zifchak has sung a varied repertoire from Handel to Britten. She currently lives in New York City.
Q: Your repertoire consists largely of supporting characters such as Suzuki. For you, where is the joy in playing this kind of role on the opera stage?
A: I have had many opportunities to be a part of incredible productions with incredible casts. There is something very enjoyable about being able to be a part of things, without the pressure of carrying the show in a lead role. For me, it's the best of both worlds!
Q: Suzuki is generally viewed as a loyal, dutiful servant – but not much more than that. Is there another dimension to her character that you try to bring out in your performances?
A: I have found that many times the role of Suzuki is not considered very much. Because she is one of few words, some consider her just as a servant, and there is not much development of her. But if you consider her involvement in the story, she is the only one who is with Cio-Cio-San from the beginning of the story to the end. Three years have passed between Acts 1 & 2 and no one knows what has happened in Cio-Cio-San's everyday life but Suzuki. She has lived through every moment with Cio-Cio-San.
In my opinion, if her character isn't developed as one who is invested in the lives of Cio-Cio-San and her son, the Flower Duet and her reaction to the events in Act 3 make no sense.
Q: What is your favorite moment in “Madama Butterfly”?
A: There are many! I love Butterfly's aria "Un Bel Di." This naive young girl has imagined every single moment of Pinkerton's return. It is so full of love and anticipation.
There's also the moment in Act 2 when Sorrow (or Trouble) is introduced. "E questo!" The music is unbelievable and makes me well up every time!
Q: What advice do you have for young singers?
A: To enjoy every moment of what your career offers you. It's a very competitive career, yet it is the most personal. Look out for yourself and don't worry about what everyone else is doing. Learn whom to trust, take what advice is useful to you and leave it at that. This career takes years to develop and dedication that at some times takes over your life. On a completely practical level, it is best for all singers to have outside interests. It is important, in my opinion, to remember that singing is a job. It is not the definition of who you are as a human being.
Q: What do you most enjoy about Arizona?
A: I cannot get over how absolutely beautiful it is. I have visited here three times before and love to soak in the scenery. The sky is immense and feels so close and is gorgeous.
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