OPERA

The classic French opera makes its debut in the city

The classic opera Carmen makes its debut this month in the city at Dubai Opera

It’s hosted everything from Steps concerts to fashion shows and now, for three nights, Dubai Opera will host the legendary opera Carmen.

Penned by French composer Georges Bizet, it’s based on the 1845 novella of the same name by French writer Prosper Mérimeé. Performed in French with English and Arabic subtitles, expect to hear a score packed with arias including Toréador Song.

It follows the tale of a doomed love affair between soldier Don José, who falls in love with hot-tempered gypsy Carmen and grapples with love, betrayal and jealousy.

Panned by early critics when it was first released in 1875 (who objected to the realism on stage such as the inclusion of gypsies, a peasant girl and smugglers), Bizet went on to achieve posthumous success for his work, and Carmen is now considered to be one of the most popular Western operas of all time – and the composer’s most famous.

The opera is produced by The Armenian National Academic Theatre Opera and Orchestra – they’re also producing Mozart’s The Magic Flute, which will run for thee nights at Dubai Opera from September 13 to 15.

Plus, Dubai Opera is offering a deal – if you buy two pairs of tickets to see Carmen and The Magic Flute, you’ll only pay for three tickets. September 6, 7, 8

Dubai Opera, Downtown Dubai, Dubai, timings vary, Dhs350 to Dhs950. Tel: (04) 4408888. Taxi: Dubai Opera, Downtown Dubai. dubaiopera.com