The Royal Opera: Carmen

*From the organisers (correct at the time of publishing), please see the organiser’s website for the latest details.

(Sung in French with English subtitles)

Cast: Carmen: Aigul Akhmetshina, Don José: Piotr Beczala, Micaëla: Olga Kulchynska, Escamillo: Kostas Smoriginas, Zuniga: Blaise Malaba

Director: Damiano Michieletto
Conductor: Antonello Manacorda
Orchestra of the Royal Opera House

Recorded Live
‘Carmen’ tells the story of a passionate and free-spirited woman named Carmen, who works in a cigarette factory in Seville, Spain. She seduces Don José, a naive soldier, who falls deeply in love with her and deserts the military to be with her. However, Carmen’s wandering heart leads her to pursue the dashing bullfighter Escamillo, leaving Don José consumed by jealousy and obsession. As their tumultuous love triangle unfolds, jealousy, betrayal, and tragedy ensue. Don José’s obsession with Carmen ultimately leads to a violent confrontation, resulting in her tragic death. The opera, composed by Georges Bizet, is renowned for its vivid portrayal of love, desire, and the fiery spirit of its protagonist, Carmen, set against the vibrant backdrop of Spanish culture and the bullfighting arena.