Sempre Opera, in collaboration with Joburg Theatre, proudly announces the eagerly awaited 2025 stage production of Georges Bizet’s iconic opera Carmen. This production forms part of a global tribute to the masterpiece, which has captivated audiences for 150 years with its fiery characters, immortal music, and timeless themes of love, freedom, and inevitable fate.
The story unfolds in the sun-drenched streets of Seville, where Carmen – an independent woman – refuses to be bound by anyone’s rules. Her relationships with the soldier Don José and the charismatic bullfighter Escamillo ignite a stormy love triangle of passion, jealousy, and betrayal – a timeless tragedy that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. Bizet’s score, featuring beloved arias such as the seductive “Habanera,” the triumphant Toreador Song, and Don José’s romantic “La fleur que tu m’avais jetée,” remains among the most recognizable and emotionally charged in the operatic repertoire.
The 2025 stage production brings together a distinguished ensemble of local and international talent, under the direction of Riana van Vollenhoven. Renowned mezzo-soprano Linette van der Merwe brings the iconic role of Carmen to life with enthusiastic conviction. Seasoned tenor Stéfan Louw portrays Don José, the tragic soldier whose obsession with Carmen leads to his downfall. The role of Escamillo, the charismatic Spanish bullfighter, is alternately performed by Thabang Senekal (bass-baritone) and Croatian guest artist Berislav Jercovič, adding international flair to the production.
Soprano Jo-Nette LeKay lends lyrical grace to the role of Micaëla, Don José’s childhood sweetheart. The roles of Frasquita and Mercédès are also alternately performed by Letago Kekana, Eulandri Venter as Frasquita, and Stéphanie-Claire Hansen and Sky Simelane as Mercédès, each bringing fresh, youthful energy to the production. The smugglers Le Remendado and Le Dancaïro are portrayed by Chris Mostert (tenor) and Martin Bruwer (baritone), further enriching the vocal ensemble.
The Sempre Opera Ad Hoc Choir, under the direction of Kobus Buys, contributes to the rich soundscape of the production, promising a captivating operatic experience. The Musae Orchestra is conducted by Daniel Keet, who returns from Italy especially to lead the musical direction of Bizet’s most famous opera.
The opera is sung in French with English subtitles.
Performances will take place on July 19, 20, 23, and 25, 2025, at the Mandela Theatre in Johannesburg.
Tickets are available at the Joburg Theatre box office or online at www.joburgtheatre.com. There are student and block booking prices available and special prices for the 17th July
This production is a celebration of Carmen’s enduring legacy – a tribute to her rebellious spirit and the eternal struggle between love, freedom, and the price of independence.
Webpage: www.sempreopera.co.za
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