Sempre Opera, in proud partnership with Joburg Theatre, invites Gauteng audiences to experience Carmen — a richly staged, emotionally powerful celebration of Georges Bizet’s legendary opera, which has already opened to rapturous applause and audience acclaim at the Mandela Theatre.
With only three performances remaining, this limited-run production forms part of the global 150-year tribute to Carmen and has already been described as “a colourful opera with beautiful music and a vibrant cast. A show not to be missed!”
Performance Times:
- Wednesday, 23 July – 19:30
- Friday, 25 July – 19:30
- Sunday Matinee, 27 July – 15:00
To book your tickets for this exciting event, visit: https://bit.ly/4lqlnYA
Senior Citizens Special
Senior citizens can enjoy a 50% discount on tickets exclusively for the Wednesday, 23 July 2025 performance.
A Timeless Tale, Reimagined for a Modern Audience
Set in 19th-century Seville, Carmen remains one of the most performed operas in the world. It follows the story of a fiercely independent woman who resists societal norms and refuses to be claimed — even at great cost. Her entanglements with Don José, a soldier drawn into obsession, and Escamillo, the bold bullfighter, unfold into a timeless drama of passion, jealousy, and fate.
Bizet’s score is among the most recognisable in the operatic canon — from Carmen’s sultry “Habanera” and the explosive “Toreador Song” to Don José’s aching “La fleur que tu m’avais jetée” — making this production both accessible to newcomers and deeply rewarding for seasoned opera lovers.
Artistic Direction and Musical Leadership
Director Riana van Vollenhoven brings a fresh yet faithful vision to Carmen, drawing on her extensive experience and intuitive grasp of character-driven opera. Her staging balances emotional depth with striking theatricality, offering a visually engaging and dramatically satisfying experience.
Musical direction is led by Daniel Keet, returning from Italy to conduct the Musae Orchestra. Under his baton, Bizet’s music comes alive with colour, precision, and feeling — from the grandeur of the overture to the intimacy of the final duet.
The Sempre Opera Ad Hoc Choir, under the direction of Kobus Buys, lends powerful ensemble work and lush choral textures throughout.
A Cast of Distinction
- Linette van der Merwe (mezzo-soprano) brings strength, sensuality, and subtlety to the title role. Her Carmen is a fully realised character — not just a seductress, but a woman who lives by her own code.
- Stéfan Louw (tenor), a household name in South African opera, portrays Don José with exceptional vocal control and emotional authenticity.
- The role of Escamillo is shared by acclaimed bass-baritone Thabang Senekal and international guest artist Berislav Jercovič from Croatia — both delivering commanding performances of the charismatic matador.
- Jo-Nette LeKay (soprano) lends lyrical warmth and sincerity to Micaëla, offering a heartfelt contrast to Carmen’s defiant spirit.
The cast is rounded out by talented performers including Letago Kekana, Eulandri Venter, Stéphanie-Claire Hansen, Chris Mostert, and Martin Bruwer, ensuring a vocally rich and dramatically cohesive production.
Don’t Miss This Operatic Milestone
This staging of Carmen is not merely a performance, but a tribute — a heartfelt homage to a work that continues to resonate 150 years after its premiere. Performed in French with English subtitles, it offers universal themes of love, freedom, and consequence, brought to life by a cast and crew committed to artistic excellence.
Whether you’re a lifelong opera enthusiast or discovering Bizet for the first time, this production promises an evening (or afternoon) of unforgettable theatre.
🎟 To book your tickets for this exciting event, visit: https://bit.ly/4lqlnYA
🎓 Special student, group and block booking discounts are available.
Web: www.sempreopera.co.za
Facebook: Sempre Opera
Three performances remain. One extraordinary opera. Johannesburg — this is your last chance to be part of Carmen’s 150th anniversary celebration at the Mandela Theatre.
