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The Arena Opera Festival 2025 presents Georges Bizet’s timeless masterpiece Carmen in Verona’s iconic open-air arena. This year’s performances feature an exceptional cast, including Aigul Akhmetshina, Anita Rachvelishvili, and Alisa Kolosova in the title role, alongside Roberto Alagna, Francesco Meli, and Piotr Beczała as Don José. Directed by the legendary Franco Zeffirelli and conducted by Francesco Ivan Ciampa, this production promises to captivate with its dramatic intensity and unforgettable music.
Held in the historic Verona Arena, Carmen offers a unique opportunity to enjoy world-class opera in one of the most atmospheric venues in the world. Surrounded by Verona’s vibrant charm and the beauty of nearby Lake Garda, this is an experience not to be missed. Whether you’re an opera enthusiast or simply looking for a special evening, Carmen at the Arena Opera Festival will leave a lasting impression.
Arena di Verona
The Verona Arena is one of the most iconic open-air opera venues in the world. This Roman amphitheater, built in the 1st century AD, boasts exceptional acoustics and a breathtaking atmosphere under the night sky. Located in the heart of Verona, the Arena blends centuries of history with world-class performances. Visitors can enjoy the unique experience of opera in this historic setting, surrounded by the charm of Verona’s cobblestone streets and vibrant culture. With seating for thousands, it remains a must-see destination for music lovers worldwide.
The Story of CARMEN
Georges Bizet’s Carmen premiered in 1875 at the Opéra-Comique in Paris and has since become one of the most beloved operas worldwide. Set in 19th-century Seville, Carmen tells the story of a free-spirited and passionate woman whose charm entices everyone she meets. The opera’s central conflict revolves around Carmen and Don José, a soldier whose obsessive love leads to betrayal and tragedy.
From its famous Habanera to the Toreador Song, Carmen features some of opera’s most recognizable melodies. Bizet’s score masterfully combines Spanish influences with emotional depth, creating a vivid and timeless musical landscape. Today, Carmen is celebrated not only for its music but also for its strong characters and dramatic narrative.
The Artists
Cast
Direction and set design • Franco Zeffirelli
Costumes • Anna Anni
Lights • Paolo Mazzon
Coreografia • El Camborio
Conductor • Francesco Ivan Ciampa
Children’s Choir • A.LI.VE.
Conductor A.LI.VE. • Paolo Facincani
Dance Company • Compañía Antonio Gades
Orchestra, Coro, Ballo e Tecnici • Fondazione Arena di Verona
Chorus Master • Roberto Gabbiani
Dance Company Coordinator • Gaetano Petrosino
Director of stage design • Michele Olcese
Interpreters
Carmen
• Aigul Akhmetshina 04/07 14/08 23/08 29/08 03/09
• Alisa Kolosova 12/07 26/07
• Anita Rachvelishvili 18/07
Micaela
• Aleksandra Kurzak 04/07
• Mariangela Sicilia 12/07 18/07 26/07 23/08 29/08 03/09
• Daniela Schillaci 14/08
Frasquita
• Daniela Cappiello 04/07 12/07 18/07 26/07 14/08 23/08 29/08 03/09
Mercédès
• Sofia Koberidze 04/07 12/07 18/07 26/07 14/08 23/08 29/08 03/09
Don Josè
• Roberto Alagna 04/07
• Francesco Meli 12/07 03/09
• Yusif Eyvazov 18/07 26/07
• Piotr Beczała 14/08
• Freddie De Tommaso 23/08
• Paolo Lardizzone 29/08
Escamillo
• Erwin Schrott 04/07 23/08
• Luca Micheletti 12/07 18/07 26/07 14/08
• Giorgi Manoshvili 29/08 03/09
Dancairo
• Jan Antem 04/07 12/07 18/07 26/07 14/08 23/08 29/08 03/09
Remendado
• Carlo Bosi 04/07 12/07 18/07 26/07 14/08
• Vincent Ordonneau 23/08 29/08 03/09
Zuniga
• Gabriele Sagona 04/07 12/07 18/07 26/07 14/08 23/08 29/08 03/09
Morales
• Giulio Mastrototaro 04/07 12/07 18/07 26/07 14/08 23/08 29/08 03/09
Performance Dates Carmen
2025-07-04 ... 2025-09-03
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Events
Operas, Ballets, Concerts of the Season
In Verona at Arena
