Learn how the team at Opera Versailles used original notebooks and sketches to stage their historic production of "Carmen."
The Making of Carmen at Opera Versailles
Documentary
royal opera of versailles presents
Carmen, Bizet - 150th Anniversary in Versailles
Opera160 min202515, PG-13
The Royal Opera of Versailles presents a meticulous revival of Bizet’s “Carmen” 150 years after the composer’s death—restoring the raw passion that scandalized audiences at its 1875 premiere. Christian Lacroix’s lavish period costumes and sets transport us to sun-drenched Seville, where the fearless Carmen (Adèle Charvet, a captivating force of nature) ensnares the dutiful Don José (Julien Behr, tormented by duty and consumed by desire). He sacrifices everything—his military career and innocent fiancée—for her love. But when the dashing toreador Escamillo (Alexandre Duhamel, exuding swagger) captures her heart, passion turns to jealousy, and fate takes a deadly turn. Under the baton of Hervé Niquet, the Royal Opera Orchestra infuses Bizet’s score with electrifying intensity—from the sultry “Habanera” to the triumphant “Toreador Song”—all performed on authentic period instruments. Experience "Carmen" as it first shocked, seduced, and conquered the world.
Why Watch This
“This special production was staged to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the premiere of Bizet's Carmen, which debuted in Paris in 1875 and completely redefined French opera. The performance takes place inside the Royal Opera House at the Palace of Versailles, inaugurated in 1770 for the wedding of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette, its carved wooden interior is one of the most beautiful performance spaces in the world.”
— Marquee TV Content Curator