Synopis:
Act 1- Pinkerton is sold a geisha wife named Cio-Cio-San by a marriage broker named Goro. Pinkerton is
a Lieutenant and is using Cio-Cio-San as an amusement until he can find a "real" American wife. After the ceremonies
her uncle Bonze bursts in to denounce her for forsaking her religion. Her relatives renounce her and leave. Once
alone, Cio-Cio-San and Pinkerton proclaim their love for eachother.
Act 2- Three years later, Cio-Cio-San alone still thinks her husband will return. Her maid, Suzuki, shows
her there is little money left. Sharpless enters with a letter from Pinkerton just as Goro appears with a new potential
husband. Cio-Cio-San insisting that she is still married sends them away. Sharpless tries to read her the letter, suggesting
that Pinkerton may not return but when Cio-Cio-San shows him her child he lacks the heart to tell her of his American marriage.
A cannon is heard from harbor and a spy glass confirms that its Pinkerton's ship.
Act 3- At dawn, Cio-Cio-San and her child leave. Soon Sharpless, Pinkerton, and Kate, his new American
wife, enter. With great despair, Suzuki realizes what this means, and finally agrees to help them tell Cio-Cio-San that they
have come for her son. When Cio-Cio-San comes back she finally agrees to give up her chid if Pinkerton himself comes
for him in half an hour. Sending Suzuki and the child away, she withdraws her father's knife. As she raises the
blade, Suzuki sends the child into the room. After a passionate farewell, she sends him to play, and now stabs herself. Pinkerton
is heard calling her name as she dies.
