Buxton International Festival: La tragédie de Carmen
Buxton International Festival: La tragédie de Carmen
Derby Days Out were lucky enough to be invited to the red-carpet opening night of the Buxton International Festival, which is a programme of spectacular, world-class opera, music, book and jazz events. The festival began with a drinks reception to mark the opening night in style in the picturesque courtyard behind the Buxton Crescent Hotel.
In traditional opera fashion, La tragédie de Carmen began at 7.15pm. A joint creation between the BIF and Norwich Theatre, this 90-minute performance of Bizet’s Carmen, adapted by Peter Brook, was a fantastic introduction to the genre. Sung in French with English subtitles, Carmen is a brutal, gritty tale of self-destruction fuelled by lust, set to some of the most famous music in opera. The story follows the naïve soldier Don José who falls for the beautiful and ambitious Carmen, who captures the attention of all she meets. Soon enough, her affections are diverted much to José’s frustration and his jealousy has deadly consequences. In this version of the classic opera, directed by Katharina Kastening, clever on-stage costume changes draw attention to Carmen as the ‘femme fatale’, but also offers a new perspective of this complex character as a victim.
Photos: Genevieve Girling
Carmen is stunningly brought to life by an outstanding cast of five singers whose vocals keep you captivated from start to finish. Irish mezzo-soprano, Niamh O’Sullivan assumes the title role, with Elgan Llŷr Thomas as José.
Bizet’s famous work is impressively performed live by the Northern Chamber Orchestra.
The opening night set high standards in what is set to be a fantastic three weeks of events. The Buxton International Festival runs from 4th to 21st July. To book tickets and to view the full programme, click here.
