2008 - 'Madam Butterfly'

On Saturday June 28th 2008 Greenham Common Trust, in partnership with the Newbury Weekly News and Newbury Racecourse, presented the much loved ‘Madam Butterfly’ by Puccini, a tale of passion, obsession and betrayal. The weather was perfect, the evening was a great success and the performance drew many favourable comments from the audience: “It was lovely to sit amongst people who had never been to an opera before and see how much they enjoyed it. The whole atmosphere of performing opera outside in an informal setting was delightful and a new experience for us....eat your heart out Covent Garden!”

To accompany the 2008 Opera for All a Butterfly Drawing Competition was held, in partnership with The Living Rainforest. Drawings or paintings that illustrated butterflies and/or butterfly conservation were invited from children across the local area. This charming entry by 5-year-old Sophie, with the caption 'Don't let us fly away forever', was the winner of the 5 and Under group. Sophie and the other winners won a £20 book token, a free family visit to the Living Rainforest and tickets to see 'Madam Butterfly' at Newbury Racecourse. The Trust would like to say thank you to everyone who took part in the competition.