Brescia/Amisano © Teatro alla Scala
Experience the irresistible passion of “Carmen“ , Georges Bizet’s timeless opera that has captivated audiences since its premiere! From June 8 to 27, 2026, the Teatro alla Scala Milano presents a compelling new production of this masterpiece that forever changed the world of opera. Immerse yourself in a world brimming with fiery romance, dramatic jealousy, and unyielding freedom as the story of the seductive gypsy Carmen and the soldier Don José, obsessed by her, comes to life on La Scala’s revered stage. Bizet’s music is a feast for the senses: from famous arias like the Habanera and the Toreador Song to the thrilling choruses – every note pulsates with energy and Spanish flair. This opera is a sensual experience that draws you deep into the human depths of love, desire, and fate. Under the musical direction of the outstanding Myung-Whun Chung and featuring a world-class cast including Clémentine Margaine and Stéphanie d’Oustrac as Carmen, Vittorio Grigolo and Matthew Polenzani as Don José, and Giorgi Manoshvili and Nicolas Courjal as Escamillo, this “Carmen” promises an unforgettable and electrifying performance.
The Teatro alla Scala in Milan is not merely an opera house; it is a legend, a true temple of musical art. Since its opening in 1778, it has established itself as one of the world’s leading stages for opera and ballet and is inextricably linked with the golden era of Italian operatic tradition. Step into its magnificent halls: the gilded boxes, the elegant tiers, and the majestic chandelier create an atmosphere of incomparable beauty that makes every opera visit a sublime experience. The house’s acoustics are proverbial for their crystal-clear purity and warm, enveloping resonance, allowing Bizet’s passionate score to unfold in all its vibrant glory. Here, countless operas have premiered and the greatest voices in operatic history have been celebrated, their echoes still reverberating within these walls. La Scala is the radiant symbol of Italian culture and artistic excellence, a place where time-honored tradition and bold innovation resonate in perfect harmony. An evening here is not merely a performance, but a profound journey into the heart of operatic art, enveloped by the grandeur and aura that only La Scala can offer.
Plot and History of the Opera
Georges Bizet’s opera “Carmen” is an opéra-comique in four acts based on Prosper Mérimée’s novella of the same name. It premiered on March 3, 1875, at the Opéra-Comique in Paris, but only achieved its worldwide success after Bizet’s death. The plot is set in southern Spain, mainly in Seville, around 1820, and tells the tragic story of the seductive gypsy Carmen. She works in a cigarette factory and is known for her free and unconventional nature. Sergeant Don José, a dutiful soldier, falls madly in love with her after she seduces him with her famous Habanera. To be with her, he abandons his military duties, deserts, and joins a band of smugglers.
Carmen’s love, however, is fleeting and liberty-loving; she cannot be tied to one man. She soon turns her attention to the popular bullfighter Escamillo, who is also fascinated by her bold and proud spirit. Don José’s raging jealousy grows as Carmen pushes him further away. The drama culminates outside the bullring in Seville, where Escamillo is celebrated in triumph. José confronts Carmen one last time, pleading with her to return to him. Carmen definitively rejects him, declaring that she was born free and will die free. In a fit of despair and jealousy, José stabs Carmen. The opera ends with her death, while the crowd in the background cheers Escamillo’s victory, a grim irony juxtaposed with Carmen’s inevitable fate. Bizet’s “Carmen” is renowned for its colorful orchestration, thrilling melodies, and masterful portrayal of human passions.
Cast and Creative Team of CARMEN
Opéra-comique in four acts
Libretto by Prosper Mérimée
Teatro alla Scala Orchestra and Chorus
Treble Voices Chorus of the Teatro alla Scala Academy
Teatro alla Scala New Production
Co-production with Royal Opera House Covent Garden and Teatro Real, Madrid
Conductor • MYUNG-WHUN CHUNG
Staging • DAMIANO MICHIELETTO
Sets • PAOLO FANTIN
Costumes • CARLA TETI
Lights • ALESSANDRO CARLETTI
Cast
Don José • Vittorio Grigolo (June 8, 12, 16, 22, 25 and 27) • Matthew Polenzani (June 10, 18, 20 and 23)
Escamillo • Giorgi Manoshvili (June 8, 12, 16, 22, 25 and 27) • Nicolas Courjal (June 10, 18, 20 and 23)
Le Dancaïre • Pierre Doyen
Le Remendado • Loïc Félix
Carmen • Clémentine Margaine (June 8, 12, 16, 22 and 25) • Stéphanie d’Oustrac (June 10, 18, 20, 23 and 27)
Micaëla • Slávka Zámečníková
Mercédès • Marine Chagnon
Frasquita • Sarah Dufresne
Booking Process
Music trip to Milan for 3 days / 2 nights with premium tickets for the opera “Carmen”. The highlight is a visit to the famous Teatro alla Scala 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
Combine this operatic highlight with a fascinating journey to Lombardy. Milan, the elegant metropolis, beckons with its incomparable charm, fashion and design boutiques, historical treasures like the Duomo, and a vibrant art scene. Just a stone’s throw away, the picturesque Italian Lakes, such as Lake Como or Lake Maggiore, await with their breathtaking backdrop of majestic Alps and Mediterranean flora. Savor the exquisite Italian cuisine, explore charming villages, and let yourself be enchanted by the summery flair of Northern Italy. A trip to “Carmen” at La Scala is the perfect opportunity to combine high culture with an unforgettable holiday.
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Performance dates of “Carmen” at La Scala in Milan
2026-06-08 ... 2026-06-27
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