The Knowledge Dock FabPad’s printing services were recently called upon by English National Opera (ENO)to print thirteen sumptuous ‘geisha kimonos’ for Oscar®-winning director and writer Anthony Minghella’s original and stunning new production of Puccini’s classic, Madam Butterfly.

First performed at La Scala, Milan in 1904, MADAM BUTTERFLY is one of the world’s most popular operas. The exquisite beauty of Giacomo Puccini’s timeless music underscores an emotional and thrilling story of devotion, honour and betrayal set in Nagasaki, Japan. The exotic tale of the young Japanese geisha girl Cio-Cio-San (‘Butterfly’) and her unwavering love for a callous American Naval Lieutenant, has captivated audiences worldwide for over 100 years. 

Froo Gager, Costumer Supervisor at ENO said: “both Anna and Michael at the FabPad were extremely generous with their time and skills to produce so many samples for our designer to see. I personally know they went out of their way to make sure we had the fabric printed on time, infact, we received the whole order ahead of schedule. There were a few problems with one specific fabric, the weight and quality of which was particularly important for us to use for the kimonos and Anna & Michael persevered to achieve the results which the designer was thrilled with…infact she wants to place an order for more”.

“This is an on-going project for us and so we will have to repeat some of the printing for future costumes and I am delighted and relieved to deal with such lovely and professional people. I was also thrilled that they were both able to see the production and were so enthusiastic about the experience”.

FabPad Manager, Michael Riches, said: “It has truly been a great honour, thrilling and exciting experience to work with ENO on such a high-profile project. I’m really pleased that they are happy with the kimonos we printed and I hope this marks the beginning of a long and productive partnership between us. I have found it very gratifying to see stunning images of the kimonos published in the national press, as it illustrates the quality of work we produce at the FabPad”.                                                   

The show which is staged at the London Coliseum is currently performing until December 13th and will return in April for a further eight performances. For further information about the Opera or to book tickets, please visit http://www.eno.org/madambutterfly/home.html

Photos: Johan Persson