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Bizet’s “Carmen” returns to the Palau de la Música

A shortened version of the opera, with a contemporary production combining music and dance, can be seen on the 19th and 27th of February

Composed by Georges Bizet in 1875, based on a libretto by Henri Meilhac and Ludovic Halévy and inspired by Prosper Mérimée’s homonymous novel, Carmen is one of the most popular operas ever written. Set in exotic Andalusia at the beginning of the 19th century, the opera tells a tale of love and heartbreak between a young, free-spirited tobacco salesgirl with a hedonist outlook on life and love, and Don José, the soldier who becomes her lover.

The opera, which caused quite the scandal in its time, has thrilled audiences since its debut thanks to an intensely seductive score that combines a variety of styles, from French Romantic to the drama of Verismo, or musical Realism, all combined with melodies inspired by Spanish folklore.

The upcoming production in the Palau de la Música presents the four-act opera in a shortened, semi-staged version of just over two hours, including an intermission. The staging itself features a cast of more than 100, with Marta Valero and Sergi Giménez Carreras in the starring roles, as well as late-19th-century wardrobe and four Spanish dances. Stage direction and choreography is at the hands of Frederic Gómez while the score is interpreted by the 50-piece Terrasa 48 orchestra with Xavier Puig at the helm.

Carmen de Bizet, two-act opera in a semi-staged version 

When: the 19th of February and the 27th of February at 8.30 pm
Where: Palau de la Música

Price: from 18 to 48 €

More information here

Publication date: Wednesday, 11 February 2015
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