The score of Madama Butterfly filled 102 Classroom/Office Building last Friday as local residents attentively listened to Laura Macy's lecture about the opera.

Along with providing background about Puccini and his opera, Macy explained the importance of the music in relation to action on the stage. She also pointed out segments of the opera that most first-time viewers miss.

"I think the pre-performances lectures are important, especially for those who don't know much about the opera," said Macy, an assistant professor of music.

The lecture was part of Artistic Viewpoints -- free informative talks about some shows sponsored by the Center for the Performing Arts. The discussions originated during the center's 1989-1990 season as a way to provide the University and local communities with background about a show before they see it.

"I came to discover a bit more about the opera," said Marcel De Gabriele, an integrative arts teaching assistant who said he finds the talks extremely informative.

But though many seats were filled by local residents whose attendance usually ranges from 50 to 70 people, the lack of students did not go unnoticed.

"I was hoping that I would see some of our students here," De Gabriele said. "Some are aware of (Viewpoints), but that doesn't mean much."

Although De Gabriele said he wishes more students would come, he can understand why attendance is low.

"(Students) want to get dressed up and go right to the show, not come here an hour before," he said.

Time might play a role in low student attendance, said Ken Foster, the center's director. The student-rush period might have an impact -- the half-price student tickets go on sale at 7:30 p.m. and Viewpoints take place from 7 to 7:30 p.m., Foster said.

Though Viewpoints could be considered an educational tool, it is not meant to be as rigid as classroom lectures, he said.

Macy added that she views the lectures as a great lead in to the performance for the audience.

"It gets them in the mood," she said.

The next Artistic Viewpoints will focus on the Bartok Quartet. The discussion will be held at 7 p.m. today in Schwab Auditorium. The show will follow at 8 p.m. in the auditorium.