Bizet: Carmen
Sheet Music

SKU: NX.OA-1197D

By Christine Rice; Bryan Hymel; Aris Argiris; Maija Kovalevska; Nicolas Courjal; Dawid Kimberg; Elena Xanthoudakis; Paula Murrihy; Trinity Boys Choir; Tiffin Girls Choir; Royal Opera Chorus; Orchestra of the Royal Opera House; Constantinos Carydis. By Georges Bizet. Sound: Dolby Stereo / Dolby Surround. Classical. DVD. Naxos #OA 1197D. Published by Naxos (NX.OA-1197D).

809478011972. Language: English; Subtitles: English, French, German, Japanese, Korean.

Julian Napier's cinematic film of the Royal Opera's production of Carmen - originally shot in 3D - is now available on DVD. Arguably the world's most popular opera, at the centre of this musical drama is the fiery Carmen, a gypsy woman whose love is as fleeting as it is passionate. Carmen has a devastating effect on the men she ensnares, and as the opera begins, she initiates an intense love affair with army corporal Don Jose. Later, when she abandons him for her new conquest, the bullfighter Escamillo, Don Jose's jealousy turns to rage. This time, Carmen has pushed one suitor too far for her own good. In this characteristically vivid and vibrant stage production by Francesca Zambello, Seville is brought to life with ranks of soldiers, crowds of peasants, gypsies and bullfighters - as well as a magnificent horse, a donkey and even some chickens! Featuring the indomitable Bryan Hymel as Don Jose and Christine Rice in the title role, this compelling production of Bizet's masterpiece has everything from intimate solos to rousing choruses, making it truly a musical event to remember. Filmed in High Definition and recorded in true Surround Sound. "This staging lends itself specially well to film in many ways. It's as colourful as the music...Rice's dark good looks make her a good choice for the part. Her singing is precise and attractive...Argiris's Escamillo is much deeper than the usual flashy image...Kovalevska's Micaela on the other hand was superb from beginning to end." (Opera Today).