The 101st Arena di Verona Opera Festival will conclude on Saturday, September 7, with a sold-out performance of Bizet’s masterwork Carmen. The classic production, created by renowned director and set designer Franco Zeffirelli, will see over 500 artists on stage, a multinational ensemble, and stunning original costumes designed by Anna Anni.
The outstanding mezzo-soprano Alisa Kolosova will play Carmen, who is divided between two tremendous forces: the passionate soldier Don José (Paolo Lardizzone) and the charismatic bullfighter Escamillo (Dalibor Jenis). Soprano Mariangela Sicilia, who got excellent honors for her performance as Liù in Turandot, which aired on Rai 3, will reprise the role of the sweet Micaela.
Alessia Nadin and Daniela Cappiello will play Carmen’s friends Frasquita and Mercedes, while Jan Antem and Vincent Ordonneau will play Dancairo and Remendado, respectively. Gabriele Sagona and Fabio Previati will round out the cast as soldiers Zuniga and Morales.
Maestro Daniel Oren, a long-time favorite at Arena di Verona, will oversee the Arena Foundation’s orchestra, the Arena chorus under the direction of Roberto Gabbiani, and the children’s choir A.Li.Ve., prepared by Paolo Facincani. El Camborio and the Antonio Gades Company, directed by Stella Arauzo, will bring the bright and passionate world of Bizet’s Carmen to life via traditional Spanish choreography.
The epic production, set in the center of Seville, will immerse viewers in the fire and drama of Bizet’s score, complete with dramatic lighting by Paolo Mazzon and Spanish-inspired dance.
