Michieletto revolutionizes the classic Carmen and shakes up the London scene
Damiano Michieletto, the internationally recognized director, has brought a new and modern interpretation of Georges Bizet’s Carmen to the prestigious stage of the Royal Opera House (ROH) in London. This production, which runs from this weekend until May 31st, is set to shake up traditional perceptions of the iconic opera. Michieletto’s version presents Carmen as a proud and fiercely independent woman who becomes a victim of male violence. The staging is marked by elements of 20th-century popular culture and even draws inspiration from Western films.
The debut performance at the Royal Opera House was met with resounding applause from the passionate opera enthusiasts in the audience. Michieletto’s ability to captivate both the public and critics is evident in the sold-out show, which will also be performed in Madrid and Milan in the coming seasons. The high-quality cast and musicians, led by conductor Antonello Manacorda and alternated with Frenchman Emmanuel Villaume, contributed to the success of the production.
According to Michieletto, Carmen is a tragedy linked to the immaturity of men and their inability to accept reality. This immaturity leads Don José to commit a criminal act, symbolizing his persistent infantilism. However, Carmen is also a story about freedom. The character of Carmen represents the idea of absolute freedom, while Don José’s mother, portrayed as a silent shadow on stage, attempts to control her son by manipulating his will. Despite her physical absence, the strength of Don José’s mother is manifested through the character of Micaela.
The final tragedy, with Carmen’s femicide, becomes a metaphorical clash between two opposing existential models. This interpretation highlights Michieletto’s willingness to challenge traditional conventions and push boundaries. The production, co-produced by the Royal Opera House, La Scala in Milan, and the Teatro Real in Madrid, features both world-renowned opera stars and emerging talents. Aigul Akhmetshina, a young and brilliant Russian mezzo-soprano, shines in the unconventional role of Carmen with her sublime voice, confidence, and extraordinary stage presence. The performance culminates in a graphic depiction of Carmen’s death. Akhmetshina will be succeeded by her compatriot Vasilisa Berzhanskaya from May 12th. Other notable cast members include Piotr Beczala as Don José, Kostas Smoriginas as Escamillo, and Olga Kulchynska as Micaëla, who received thunderous applause for her performance.
The production has attracted the attention of the UK’s major press outlets. The Daily Telegraph has even included Michieletto’s Carmen in their list of “10 operas not to be missed” this season due to its “burning intensity” and contemporary relevance.
In conclusion, Damiano Michieletto’s innovative interpretation of Carmen has breathed new life into Bizet’s classic opera. His unique vision, combined with the exceptional performances of the cast and musicians, has captivated audiences in London and will continue to do so in Madrid and Milan. This production is a must-see for opera lovers who crave a fresh and thought-provoking take on a timeless masterpiece.