Washington National Opera: Florencia in the Amazon

Welcome to the jungle

A river spirit, an AWOL butterfly hunter and a boat full of people unaware that the diva they're travelling to see is among them incognito. This is Florencia in the Amazon, a Spanish language opera that weaves it's tale via magical realism, inspired by the writings of Garbriel Garcia Marguez. In a production famed for its tremendous visual effects, starring two time Grammy Award winner Christine Goerke as the titular opera star on the hunt for love, life and meaning.

First commissioned in 1996, Florencia is the creation of Daniel Catan and was the first Spainsh piece to play in American opera houses. It's captivating story of an enchanting voyage was enough to make this into an instant classic.

All aboard: What is the story of Florencia

Operatic star Florencia boards the steamship El Dorado en route to Manaus, her home town. Only in the hopes of not being disturbed, she is disguised. The rest of the guests are coming to Manaus to hear her sing. A warring couple, a biographer and the handsome captain's nephew are among them as this interesting group set sail. But Florencia has more on her mind than a homecoming concert. She is also looking for Cristobal, her lover who disappeared into the rainforest in search of butterflies many years before. Aided and abetted, the whole ship is in the thrall of the enigmatic Rivolo, who is not all he seems...