Introduction
Georges Bizet’s Carmen is often hailed as the opera for everyone. With its blend of French lyricism and Spanish passion, Bizet’s unforgettable melodies linger in your ears and heart long after the final curtain falls. At its core, Carmen tells the story of Don José, a man who sacrifices everything, his career, honour, family, and even his childhood sweetheart Micaëla, for a doomed love affair with the captivating and free-spirited gypsy, Carmen.
One of the most performed operas in the world, Carmen is a timeless tale of passion, destiny, and above all, freedom. It’s the story of an unforgettable woman who lives and loves on her own terms, a man consumed by her, and another woman who desperately tries to save him.
Presented by Opera Hong Kong and French May Arts Festival at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Grand Theatre from 7 to 10 May 2026, this new production of Carmen sets Georges Bizet’s timeless masterpiece in the vibrant and transformative era of 1970s Hong Kong. This was a time of rapid economic growth, cultural exchange, and boundless energy. This bustling, dynamic Hong Kong provides a backdrop for Carmen‘s themes of passion, hope and destiny, while also evoking a sense of nostalgia for an era of change and opportunity. The opera’s four acts unfold across some of the city’s most iconic locations, bringing the story to life in a way that is both imaginative and deeply resonant.
- Performed in French with Chinese and English Surtitles