A Japanese soprano struggles with cultural clashes and religious differences, hits a few walls along the way, but never gives up on her search for a way to express what is truly in her soul. Through song, she takes us on a journey through the changing seasons and the beauty of the Japanese heart. Fringe Review’s Dr.Pants sat down with Theatre Group GUMBO and soprano Junko Matsuoka to ask questions about their new show. You can catch The Return of Madama Butterfly on Wed 28 October 8:30 pm and Sun 1 November 3:00 pm.
NAP: Hello GUMBO! Pleasure as always to speak to you all. Tell us all what this song cycle is about!
GUMBO: Ever wondered what goes on inside the mind of a soprano trained in Western classical music? This show brings her inner struggles and funny moments of trial and error to life on stage! And forget the usual exotic images of Japan—we invite you to discover the real Japan, where everyday life is closely connected to the changing seasons and the beauty of nature.
NAP: What makes it unique to other shows at the Fringe or even the other shows you’re bringing to Fringe?
GUMBO: One singer, two very different musical worlds! She brings together Western classical music and traditional Japanese songs, each with its own unique roots, style, and way of seeing the world.
Come for the quirky humor and the singer’s one-of-a-kind performance, and stay to see her journey of self-discovery! After wrestling with her inner conflicts, she finds her own way to express herself. You might even leave looking at the natural world around you with fresh eyes!
NAP: The show is described as a songbook. What kind of Japanese songs are performed in the show?
JM: Songs about Japan’s beautiful seasons and natural scenery. Think of the changing colours of the landscape, the passing seasons, and the feelings they stir in the heart.
NAP: For those less familiar with classical Japanese music, what are the characteristics of these songs?
JM: They use surprisingly few words. Every word matters, and nothing is wasted. It’s simplicity taken to the extreme—sometimes, less really is more!
NAP: Gumbo, you all are much loved by everyone here at Colchester and have been regulars at the festival for year. But Junko, this is your first time in Colchester. Why did you decide to perform at Colchester Fringe?
JM: I heard that Colchester Fringe is a festival for everyone, with the whole town sharing a warm and welcoming atmosphere. That really appealed to me! As an Asian Buddhist performer, I’d love to share my show with local audiences and meet artists and visitors from all over the world. Who knows what wonderful encounters might happen?
NAP: Bringing a show internationally, let alone cross-culturally is no easy feat. What has been the biggest challenge in preparing and performing your work in the UK?
JM: There are plenty of costume changes, so there should be lots to enjoy—keep your eyes peeled! But one of my biggest challenges has been finding a way to share the delicate beauty of Japanese culture with people from a very different cultural background. I hope you’ll enjoy the show not just with your eyes and ears, but with all five senses!
NAP: What I love about GUMBO’s shows is that I am always unsure what to expect. Yet, I always leave with a smile on my face and really thinking about the world. How are you hopeful audiences will leave The Return of Madama Butterly.
JM: I hope the show will inspire people to listen to that little—or perhaps not-so-little—voice deep inside them, and give them the courage to take a new step in their lives. Sometimes, the heart knows what it wants before the head catches up!
You can catch The Return of Madama Butterfly on Wed 28 October 8:30 pm and Sun 1 November 3:00 pm. While you’re here, read about the other musical shows of Fringe including Megan Juniper’s Two Blue, the tragic death of musical theatre, grandma’s singing karaoke, see Elvis perform live, or take a trip to Dr.Pant’s DARK ROOM which features an original electronic score.
