One for everyone’s bucket list, join us for Bizet’s irresistible Carmen — a timeless tale of seduction, obsession and possession, and one of the most popular and celebrated operas ever written.
In this passionate revival, originally directed by Calixto Bieito, expect red flags, fiery drama and endless twists and turns.
Overview
Follow the ill-fated story of weak-willed Don José whose infatuation with the flirtatious, free-spirited Carmen forces him out of the army and lands him in prison. When Carmen’s passion fades, danger lies ahead as she turns her affection to the mysterious bullfighter Escamillo. With love turning to obsession Don José starts to see red.
Staging & Score
In a rebellious twist on tradition, the story is set in 1970’s Spain, where we pick up the drama under a scorching sun in the final days of dictator General Franco’s oppressive regime.
From the vibrant prelude to the dramatic end, Bizet’s seductive score pulsates with passionate melodies and evocative rhythms. Let the Orchestra of ENO transport you to Spain with the click of a castanet. From Carmen’s sultry ‘Habanera’ to Escamillo’s swaggering ‘Toreador song’, this opera has more recognisable tunes than any other. Combining memorable music and a powerful story, it is no wonder that Carmen continues to be one of the most popular operas of all time.
BSL Interpreted:
2hr 50min. Incl. 1 interval.
Ages 15+.
8th October, 2025
5th November, 2025
By: English National Opera
Music: Bizet
Director: Jamie Manton
Intimacy & Fight Director: Haruka Kuroda
Cast list: Niamh O’Sullivan, John Findon, Cory McGee, Ava Dodd
Sets: Alfons Flores
Costumes: Mercè Paloma
Lighting: Bruno Poet / Marc Rosette (revival)
Location: West End
Railway station: Charing Cross
Bus numbers: St. Martin's Lane 24, 29, 176 / 6, 9, 11, 13, 15, 23, 87, 91, 139
Night bus numbers: St. Martin's Lane 24, 176, N5, N20, N29, N41, N279 / 6, 23, 139, N9, N15, N11, N13, N21, N26, N44, N47, N87, N89, N91, N155, N343, N551
Car park: Q-Park: Chinatown (5mins) / Other: St Martin's Lane Hotel (1min)
Directions from tube: (3mins) Take Cranbourn Street until St Martin’s Lane, where you head right until you reach the theatre.
Day of week | Evening |
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Monday | - |
Tuesday | - |
Wednesday | 7:00 PM |
Thursday | - |
Friday | - |
Saturday | 7:00 PM |
Sunday | - |
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