M. Butterfly (PDF/ePUB) by David Henry Hwang Read Online for free.
M. Butterfly Information
| Book Name: | M. Butterfly |
| Author: | David Henry Hwang |
| Pages | 100 |
| Language: | English |
| File Type: | PDF/ePub (Downloadable) |
| PDF Size: | 6 MB |
| ePub Size | 10 MB |
| Also Read | Too Late (PDF/ePUB) By Colleen Hoover Read Online |
The aforementioned piece of art exhibits a remarkable display of intellectual concepts, serving as a visionary creation that effectively connects the historical and cultural aspects of two distinct societies.According to Frank Rich, a columnist for the New York Times,M. Butterfly, a play that debuted in 1988, garnered rapid attention and acclaim due to its basis on a real-life event that captivated global audiences, as well as its inspiration drawn from Giacomo Puccini’s renowned opera, Madama Butterfly. The narrative commences within a confined prison cell, wherein ambassador Rene Gallimard finds himself detained by the French government, as well as ensnared by his own delusions. The individual reminisces of a particular instance in which Song Liling, an exquisite Chinese diva, evoked within him a love that was both intense and captivating, yet also difficult to grasp, akin to the fleeting nature of a butterfly.
The individual in question may have been unaware of the fact that their genuine romantic partner was, in reality, an operative acting on behalf of the Chinese government, who had assumed a female identity despite being biologically male. The diplomat recounts the two-decade-long romantic involvement, encompassing the initial allure and enticement, the subsequent seduction, the culmination of their relationship, and the ensuing controversy that ultimately engulfed both individuals.
M. Butterfly is a highly captivating and dynamic theatrical production that has garnered significant acclaim on Broadway. This work exhibits unparalleled brilliance as it explores the intricate interplay between genders, the contrasting aspects of Eastern and Western cultures, racial stereotypes, and the deceptive facades we construct to protect our deeply held beliefs.
The initial ensemble consisted of John Lithgow portraying the character of Gallimard, while BD Wong assumed the role of Song Liling. Throughout the 777-performance duration of the show, esteemed actors David Dukes, Anthony Hopkins, Tony Randall, and John Rubinstein were additionally enlisted to portray the character of Gallimard. The drama was adapted by Hwang into a film in 1993, which was directed by David Cronenberg and featured Jeremy Irons and John Lone in the lead roles.
About The Author David Henry Hwang
David Henry Hwang, born on August 11, 1957, is an esteemed American playwright who has achieved significant recognition as a leading figure in Asian American drama within the United States.
The individual’s birthplace is Los Angeles, California, and they received their education from the esteemed institutions of the Yale School of Drama and Stanford University. The initial theatrical production of his debut play took place at the Okada House dormitory located at Stanford University, where he briefly engaged in the study of playwriting under the tutelage of acclaimed playwrights Sam Shepard and María Irene Fornés.
David Henry Hwang is recognised as the author of various significant theatrical pieces, among them M. Butterfly, which garnered prestigious honours such as the Tony Award, Drama Desk Award, and Outer Critics Award in 1988. Additionally, it was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize. Moreover, the theatrical production titled “Golden Child” received a prestigious Tony nomination in the year 1998, while also securing the esteemed OBIE Award in 1997.
The OBIE Award and a Drama Desk nomination were bestowed upon their further works, FOB and The Dance and the Railroad, respectively. F The individual in question’s latest theatrical work, entitled “Yellow Face,” premiered at the Mark Taper Forum in Los Angeles and later at the Public Theatre in New York. The play garnered significant critical praise, as demonstrated by its reception of the esteemed 2008 OBIE Award and its acknowledgment as a Finalist for the 2008 Pulitzer Prize.
The author is credited with writing the scripts for various prominent Broadway musicals, such as Elton John and Tim Rice’s Aida (as a co-author), Rodgers and Hammers Ten’s Flower Drum Song (revived in 2002, and received a Tony Award nomination in 2003), and Disney’s Tarzan. The individual has made significant contributions to the realm of opera through the creation of libretti for a diverse range of composers. Notable collaborations include three works with Philip Glass, namely “1000 Aeroplanes on the Roof,” “The Voyage” (performed at the Metropolitan Opera), and “The Sound of a Voice.”
Additionally, the individual has worked on libretti for Bright Sheng’s “The Silver River,” Osvaldo Goli Job’s “Ainadamar” (which received two Grammy Awards in 2007), and Unsuk Chin’s “Alice In Wonderland” (recognised as Opern Hwang authored several notable feature films, including M. Butterfly, Golden Gate, and Possession (as a co-writer). Additionally, he collaborated with Prince in co-writing the song “Solo.” Hwang, who is from Los Angeles, currently holds a position on the Council of the Dramatists Guild. The individual in question pursued higher education at Stanford University and Yale Drama School. Furthermore, they were bestowed the honour of being appointed by President Clinton to serve on the President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities.
M. Butterfly Book Summary
The theatrical production centres around a factual narrative involving a French ambassador who develops a romantic attachment towards a Chinese actress, subsequently discovering that the individual in question identifies as male, while possessing an alluring and unconventional persona. Hwang’s narrative emphasises the chronological progression of Gallimard’s downfall, tracing his journey from first attraction through Song’s seductive tactics, and ultimately culminating in his inability to perceive the reality that is glaringly evident. In this drama, Gallimard’s lack of respect is evident. However, his character is portrayed as succumbing to the stereotypes associated with both genders, as well as those attributed to the East and the West.
I desire the opportunity to witness this theatrical performance in person. The intersectional and global nature of M. Butterfly prompted me to critically examine the tropes commonly linked with gender and culture. The relationship between Gallimard and Song encompassed various dimensions, including Gallimard’s profound emotional distress, Song’s strategic manipulation, their intense and performative exchanges, among other significant aspects. The other books that I have read can be categorised within established genres like as young-adult, romance, and action-adventure. However, M. Butterfly distinguishes itself as an indescribable, unconventional, and distinctive subgroup in its own right.
In general, this work is highly recommended for individuals who possess an affinity for theatrical productions that exhibit a combination of dramatic and occasionally sombre humorous elements. The play M. Butterfly effectively incorporates themes of sexuality, gender, and transnationalism, among others. Therefore, if any of these subjects pique your interest, I would highly recommend engaging with this work.