Puccinis achingly beautiful score charmingly conveys the plight of Magda (the swallow of the title), who unexpectedly finds true love with the handsome young Ruggero. But their idyllic life comes to a premature end as she is haunted by the fear that her checkered past will ruin his future. Opera stars Angela Gheorghiu and Roberto Alagna portray Puccinis star-crossed lovers. Nicholas Joëls production features elegant and sophisticated art-deco sets that contribute to the dazzling stage picture.