Finding a way to portray the stereotypically conservative, soft-spoken mannerisms of a Japanese woman while singing the passionate, emotional music of an Italian composer is a challenge for any opera singer.

But that isn’t necessarily the biggest challenge for Maryanne Telese, who plays Cio-Cio San or “Madame Butterfly” in the New York City Opera’s National Company of Puccini’s famous masterpiece, “Madame Butterfly.”

“The hardest part is trying to play a 15-year-old,” Telese said.

Thanks to her long opera career, Telese has had the opportunity to play the part of “Butterfly” many times.

“I was very fortunate,” Telese said. “Early in my career, I covered the role of ‘Butterfly’ and learned all the basics.”

Now that Telese landed the lead role in the New York City Opera’s National Company, her years as an understudy are paying off.

Throughout her many years as an opera singer, she’s had the opportunity to play everything from a member of the chorus to the lead role. However, Telese said she has never grown tired of the story — or the music.

“It’s a story that appeals to all ages and a story that never loses its impact,” Telese said. “It’s a box-office hit. Even if a company has done it in recent years, it still sells out.”

“Madame Butterfly” is the story of a 15-year-old Japanese girl named Cio-Cio-San (Madame Butterfly), who falls in love with American Naval Lieutenant Benjamin Franklin Pinkerton. The only problem is Pinkerton is American, and because of his nationality, Cio-Cio-San’s parents don’t approve of the relationship.

Renouncing family and religion, Cio-Cio-San marries Pinkerton and the two have a son who is nicknamed “Trouble.”

After the couple has been married for a while, Pinkerton leaves to go to America on Navy business.

Throughout Pinkerton’s three-year absence, Cio-Cio-San remains faithful, anxiously waiting his return. When Pinkerton finally returns, he comes back with a new American wife named Kate.

During the remainder of the opera, Madame Butterfly displays her strength and integrity by putting the wishes of others before her own.

“She’s one of the strongest women in all of opera,” Telese said. “She makes the ultimate sacrifice for her son. There’s nothing weak about Butterfly — she’s a victim of circumstance.”

Butterfly’s inspiring character isn’t the only thing that has kept Telese and other opera buffs intrigued over the years.

Telese said because of “Butterfly’s” catchy score, the opera is a great investment for opera “beginners” who have never seen an opera before.

“It’s great musical drama,” Telese said. “It’s full of tunes you remember and walk out humming.”

The New York City Opera’s National Company will perform “Madame Butterfly” tonight at Stephens Auditorium. Tickets are $17, $14 and $10 for students and can be purchased at TicketMaster locations.