Carlos Acosta - Carman

Published on 22 April 2026 at 19:30

⭐️⭐️⭐️

CURTAIN UP: 19:30

CURTAIN DOWN: 21:15

*** Three glorious stars ***

*** FEEL THE POWER OF DANCE ***

Carlos Acosta's interpretation of Bizet’s 1875 classic opera – Carman, is full of energy with a dynamic retelling that blends together flamenco, ballet, cuban and contemporary dance.

Acosta’s storytelling feels pretty revolutionary. Using a palette of red & black produces a theatrical statement throughout each set piece.

Laura Rodríguez performance as Carman is sensational. Laura is graceful as we see her love blossom for her love for Don José. But we feel her inner turmoil and her feelings change for Don José as she falls for Escamillo. Laura portrays these changing emotions superbly.

Alejandro Silva’s - to coin a well known phrase - defies gravity as he takes on the steps of Don José. We really felt the chemistry between him and Laura and adored the drama he brought as his love turns to a deadly jealousy! We felt each thunderous step as he strutted around the venue. Very impressive.

The narcissistic Escamillo (Torero) is played be Enrique Corrales who displays some of the most beautiful intrinsic dancing we have seen in a long time.

The Bull is a godlike devil figure who plays like a puppeteer of the dancers at that back of the stage. Raúl Reinoso / Frank Isaac plays this part with relish as he directs all the relationships to their catastrophic ending.

Bizet’s famous score is the glue holding everything together including carman’s ‘Habanera’ and Don Jose’s ‘Flower song’. These timeless songs act as the back drop to which the 20 strong cast are a delight to behold.

The stage visuals are something I will remember most from this production thanks to Tim Hatley. His costumes look expensive and he allows the performer to breathe and really peacock their personalities in these exquisite garments.

The video design really enhances the experience. It’s powerful. Dramatic and enthralling.

https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/carlos-acostas-carmen/opera-house-manchester/

Add comment

Comments

There are no comments yet.

Create Your Own Website With Webador