A series of free events are planned surrounding the upcoming Manitoba Opera production of Carmen.
Running March 28, 31 and April 3 at the Centennial Concert Hall, Carmen is considered the most popular opera of all time, brimming with very recognizable music including Carmen’s smoky Habanera, Don José’s Flower Song, and the rousing Toreador Song.
A film screening of “Carmen Jones” is set for February 29 (11 a.m., Cinematheque), telling the story of the beautiful and independent Carmen and the Spanish cavalry officer Don José. Translated into a modern-day story about a parachute factory worker and a pilot, the film is set in America in the mid 20th century.
“A Taste of Tarot” on March 5 (7 p.m., The Frenchway Cafe) will channel Carmen as she reads cards and sees portents of her own death in the opera. Francesca Cesari of Sacred Glow explores how the cards can be used to deepen your understanding of your own journey.
Refreshments will include a selection of French-inspired savoury items and desserts at each table. Tickets are $20 and $25 (includes a glass of French red of white wine).
“Understanding the Music of Carmen” takes opera lovers into the sounds of the production to examine the broader trends in 19th-century music and culture. Dr. James Maiello, associate professor of musicology, Desautels Faculty of Music, University of Manitoba, will address musical and dramatic conventions in 19th-century opera, as well as issues of exoticism and gender as they relate to the work and its reception. The free event is March 7 (11 a.m., Canadian Museum for Human Rights).
Several other lectures and musical presentations are scheduled surrounding Carmen. They’re listed on the Manitoba Opera website and most are free, unless otherwise specified.
ChrisD.ca will be giving away tickets to “Carmen” in the coming weeks. Subscribe to our contest newsletter to be alerted when the contest goes live!
