The Cincinnati Opera continues their summer series with the timeless opera Carmen which has become one of the most beloved and recognizable operas of all time. Composed by Georges Bizet and libretto by Henri Meilhac and Ludovic Halevy, this opera is written in the genre of Opera Comique with musical pieces separated by dialogue which was later set to music as recitative by Ernest Guiraud. The Cincinnati Opera company presents Carmen as a stunning visual performance as well as a feast for the ears.
The Story
In a remote Spanish town, the free-spirited Carmen declares that any man she loves should beware. But even she is unprepared for what happens when she decides to seduce police officer Don José. Though initially uninterested in Carmen’s charms, Don José – against the wishes of his mother and of Micaëla, the woman who loves him – soon abandons his respectable career for a life of danger with Carmen, joining her and her smuggler friends as they outrun the law. But Carmen quickly wearies of Don José’s possessiveness, longing to return to her life of independence. When she turns her attention to the celebrated matador Escamillo, Don José’s jealousy and despair threaten to violently erupt.
Stellar Cast
Mezzo soprano J’Nai Bridges is sultry and strong as Carmen. Her voice is seductive and rich. A perfect Carmen!
Don Jose is sung by tenor Matthew White, his attractive style and translucent song is a pleasure. Other notable cast members are Nathan De’Shon Myers as Morales has an outstanding instrument, Teresa Perotta’s soprano is clear and concise, and the matador, Ryan McKinny has the perfect amount of bravado in his acting and vocals.
The quintet, (Nous avons en tete une affaire) a witty ensemble piece with Carmen and her smuggler friends is a joy. A special shout out to the members of the Cincinnati Boychoir and the opera chorus, both are exceptional. And as usual the incredible Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra never fails to please.
The Creative Team
Conductor Ramon Tebar keeps the orchestra clipping along at a comfortable pace and letting the exuberance of the music come through.The scenic and costume director, Gary McCann, does a wonderful job along with lighting designer Thomas C. Hase to create a bright colorful environment for the stage. Carmen is originally set in the 1830’s but the design was 1950’s and it was a good fit. The costumes are vibrant, the sets stunning, and the lighting sets the mood perfectly.
Themes and Execution
Destiny and fate and destructive jealousy are the main themes in the opera. Fate is represented by a dark recurring musical motif that foretells Carmen’s death. Carmen refuses to obey rules and fatal rage.
Final Word
This opera runs three and a half hours (two intermissions) but is well worth the time. This visual and aural festival is a joy.
Carmen plays July 29, 31, and August 2, 2026 at Cincinnati Music Hall. Get your tickets HERE.
Sung in French with projected English translations
Carmen– J’Nai Bridges
Don José – Matthew White
Escamillo – Ryan McKinny
Micaëla – Teresa Perrotta
Zuniga – Sam Smith
Frasquita – Jeysla Rosario Santos
Mercédès – Kayleigh Decker
El Dancairo – Thomas Dreeze
El Remendado – Jack Keller
Moralès – Nathan De’Shon Myers
Lillas Pastia – Spenser Smith
Conductor – Ramón Tebar
Original Stage Director – Paul Curran
Stage Director – Anderson Nunnelly
Scenic & Costume Designer – Gary McCann
Lighting Designer – Thomas C. Hase
Wig & Makeup Designer – James Geier
Choreographer – Cervilio Amador
Chorus Master – Henri Venanzi
Stage Manager – Jennifer Shaw
Featuring the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra
Co-Production with Seattle Opera, Irish National Opera, and Opera Philadelphia
Scenery and costumes constructed by Opera Philadelphia
STUDENT RUSH: Students are eligible for $16 tickets the week of the show – up to 2 tickets per student with valid ID.
