The War Memorial Opera House is set to showcase the return of Georges Bizet's iconic opera, Carmen, closing out the San Francisco Opera's 2024 Fall Season from November 13–December 1. This classical piece will star Eve-Maud Hubeaux as Carmen in her American debut, with Jonathan Tetelman assuming the role of Don José, a first for the Chilean American tenor. British soprano Louise Alder will finally make her triple debut as — Micaëla after the pandemic derailed her initial performance. Christian Van Horn is due to present his take on the bullfighter Escamillo. "All gave very physical performances, but especially Eve-Maud Hubeaux," heralded Opera in recognition of her previous work.
The production, directed by Francesca Zambello, is a nod to the opera’s debut period, moving the setting from the original 1820s to the year Carmen first graced the stage in 1875. Zambello's rendition has been well received in the past, promising a vibrant refresh of this timeless narrative, enhanced by associate director and choreographer Annamaria Bruzzese. According to the SF Opera's official announcement, conductor Benjamin Manis will lead the San Francisco Opera Orchestra through Bizet's beloved score, featuring classics like the Toreador Song and the Habanera.
Adler Fellows, including soprano Arianna Rodriguez and baritone Samuel Kidd, alongside others, will fill important roles, with dancer Blanche Hampton taking on the character of Manuelita. Echoing Carmen's place in opera history, San Francisco Opera has featured this work in 34 seasons past and boasts interpretations from some of the most renowned Carmens, including Risë Stevens and Teresa Berganza. Eve-Maud Hubeaux joins that illustrious list, previously lauded by Die Süddeutsche saying, "Next to her everyone else fades."
On the digital side, opera enthusiasts can look forward to a livestream of the November 19 performance, with tickets available for a 48-hour on-demand window starting November 20. For those interested in a more immersive experience, the "Carmen Encounter" event, slated for November 21, promises to engross participants in the ambiance of Sevilla with a first-act opera viewing followed by explorations through the Opera House transformed into a Spanish scene. Some activities are earmarked for adult audiences, so potential attendees should note the age recommendation of 21 and over.
In promotion of diversity and cultural enrichment, the San Francisco Opera's Department of Diversity, Equity, and Community (DEC) is set to host a series of events, such as a free screening of Carmen, A Hip Hopera, starring Beyoncé and a family-friendly First Act Workshop for younger audiences. Furthering educational efforts, Dr. Alissa Deeter will host a free virtual Opera Preview on November 7, and Michael Mohammed will conduct pre-opera talks inside the auditorium before each Carmen performance. Fans can visit the SF Opera's website to engage fully with these offerings and for more details.
