Cape Town Opera: A Searing New Production of Carmen

A fiery heroine, a story told with intense passion and Georges Bizet’s unforgettable melodies make Carmen an opera that appeals to all audiences… pure joy for opera novices and connoisseurs alike. And it’s one that simply has to be seen live on stage. Especially this brand-new production from Cape Town Opera and the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra, which stages a full ensemble of some of South Africa’s finest singers, dancers and orchestra musicians in a production of thrilling scale and dramatic force.

An age-old story

Director Steven Stead has set the story (based on Prosper Mérimée’s 1845 novella) against the turbulent backdrop of the Spanish Civil War (1936–1939), intensifying the opera’s themes of power, desire and defiance.

In this rendering, Carmen is a fiercely independent factory worker, who sets her sights on the soldier Don José and turns his life upside down. After seducing him into helping her escape arrest, José’s career and moral compass unravel, drawing him into the dangerous world of smugglers. But when Carmen’s passion shifts to the charismatic bullfighter Escamillo, José’s obsession spirals into jealousy and despair. Outside the bullring, their story reaches its tragic, inevitable end.

With powerful set design by Greg King and striking costumes by Maritha Visagie, the production is as visually mesmerising as it is musically charged, with internationally acclaimed conductor Tim Murray driving the score with electrifying momentum. An accomplished cast of soloists includes Nonhlanhla Yende as Carmen, Lukhanyo Moyake as Don José, Conroy Scott as Escamillo, and Vuvu Mpofu as Micaëla, each of whom deliver enthralling performances that bring their characters to life.

A not-to-be-missed run of stirring music and thrilling theatre!

When 19 – 31 May 2026
Time 2pm + 7pm
Cost R180 – R950
Good to know The youth discount offers 25% off any ticket for those under-25s!
Where Artscape Opera House, Foreshore, Cape Town
Book Now

Discover all of the Cape’s hidden gems – subscribe to our weekly newsletter.