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From May 24 to June 3, 2026, the timeless passion of Carmen ignites the stage of Venice’s iconic Teatro La Fenice. Under the baton of conductor Francesco Ivan Ciampa and in the provocative staging of Calixto Bieito, Bizet’s opera returns in a co-production with Gran Teatre del Liceu (Barcelona), Teatro Regio di Torino, and Teatro Massimo di Palermo.
With Annalisa Stroppa and Marina Comparato alternating in the title role, Carmen unfolds as a tale of fiery independence, desire, and jealousy. Tenors Jean-François Borras and Stefan Pop bring depth to the tormented Don José, while Davide Luciano and Alessandro Luongo portray the charismatic toreador Escamillo. Sopranos Serena Gamberoni and Marta Mari perform the gentle yet determined Micaëla.
Backed by the Orchestra and Chorus of Teatro La Fenice under the choral direction of Alfonso Caiani, Bieito’s interpretation is known for its bold, realistic staging that strips Carmen of romanticism to expose its raw emotional power.
This production highlights not only the dramatic core of Bizet’s score but also the psychological complexity of its characters. Set in a gritty, militarized Spain, Bieito’s vision places Carmen firmly in a world of political tension and social boundaries—making it as relevant today as ever.
Don’t miss this unforgettable operatic experience in the heart of Venice.
Teatro La Fenice
Venice is a very unique place in the world. It is so different and beautiful that it is hard to grasp unless you have been and felt it. First-time visitors are best advised to arrive well prepared and guided.
Story of Carmen by Georges Bizet
Carmen, a fiercely independent Romani woman working in a cigarette factory in Seville, captivates every man who crosses her path—including the dutiful soldier Don José. When Carmen is arrested after a quarrel, José lets her escape, sacrificing his military career. Obsessed and deeply in love, he abandons everything for her, only to be slowly consumed by jealousy and desperation.
Carmen, however, values her freedom above all. When she turns her attention to the charismatic bullfighter Escamillo, José’s jealousy turns into rage. Meanwhile, Micaëla, a sweet village girl and José’s childhood love, tries in vain to bring him back to a life of honor.
As Carmen’s affections drift further from José, tensions escalate toward a fatal conclusion. Refusing to be controlled, Carmen meets her tragic end at the hands of the man who once adored her.
Set against a backdrop of political unrest and social inequality, Bizet’s Carmen is a timeless drama of passion, violence, and free will—brought to life through unforgettable melodies like the Habanera, the Toreador Song, and poignant arias that have made this opera one of the most beloved in the repertoire.
Cast and Creative Team of Carmen
Opera in four acts
Libretto by by Henri Meilhac and Ludovic Halévy
La Fenice staging
in co-production with Gran Teatre del Liceu in Barcelona,
Teatro Regio Foundation of Turin
and Teatro Massimo Foundation of Palermo
The Artists
Conductor • Francesco Ivan Ciampa
Staging • Calixto Bieito
Teatro la Fenice Orchestra and Chorus
Chorus Master • Alfonso Caiani
CAST
Carmen • Annalisa Stroppa / Marina Comparato
Don Josè • Jean-François Borras / Stefan Pop
Micaela • Serena Gamberoni / Marta Mari
Frasquita • Julie Mossay
Mercédès • Loriana Castellano
Escamillo • Davide Luciano / Alessandro Luongo
Le Dancaire • Armando Noguera
Le Remendado • Paolo Antognetti
Zuniga • Matteo Ferrara
Moralès • Francesco Salvadori
Booking Process
Music trip to Venice for 3 days / 2 nights with premium tickets for the opera “Carmen”. The highlight is a visit to the famous Teatro la Fenice on the second evening to experience a magnificent performance in a world-famous environment with global stars. You can select between Essential and Superior Package.
Each travel package will be composed according to your wishes. Follow the booking process:
- Select a Date
- Press “Add to cart” and “Send Request”
- When we receive your booking request, you will get an individual offer with some hotels to choose from. Only after your decision, we send you a travel contract to confirm the booking.
- Description of the Essential and Superior Package
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Performance Dates Carmen
2026-05-24 ... 2026-06-03
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Events
Operas, Ballets, Concerts of the Season 2026
At the Teatro La Fenice, Venice
