Great Performances at Mason
Virginia Opera: Carmen
16 - 17
Composed by Georges Bizet
Virginia Opera presents French composer Georges Bizet’s passion-filled masterpiece Carmen, one of the most popular operas of all time, with recognizable arias including “The Habanera” and “The Toreador Song.” Set in Spain around 1830, the drama centers on the titular character. Carmen is bold, uninhibited, and independent; she lives life on her own terms. She becomes infatuated with Don José, who throws away everything to be with her, only to be rejected when Carmen moves on, falling for a bullfighter named Escamillo. Carmen confronts the dangers of jealous obsession and falling madly in love with the wrong person. Sung in French with English surtitles.
This performance is recommended for ages 13 and over.
Tickets: $110, $70, $40; half-price for youth through Grade 12
For Center for the Arts 2024–25 subscribers who include Carmen and/or Loving v. Virginia as part of a curated package of three or more performances, Virginia Opera will extend a special 25% off discount to experience Don Giovanni and Così fan tutte in either Norfolk or Richmond. Center for the Arts subscribers will receive the offer code to redeem this discount through Virginia Opera beginning August 5. Learn more.
The program for this performance will be available the week of the event. View digital program.
Make the most of your operatic experience by learning about the context, music, and production you are about to see and hear. A pre-performance discussion will takeplace in Monson Grand Tier, which is located on the third level of the Center for the Arts Lobby, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
A limited quantity of free student tickets will be available two Tuesdays prior to the event. Learn more.
Following the Sunday, November 18 matinee, Virginia Opera will lead a post-performance discussion with the artists in the Center for the Arts main lobby.
