Georges Bizet’s classic opera of jealousy, lust, and life outside the dictates of society gets a boldly updated new production, translated and performed in English, to conclude Scottish Opera’s 60th Season. With such hit melodies as the Habanera, Flower Aria, and Toreador Song – alongside Bizet’s magnificent orchestral interludes and rousing chorus numbers – the opera has musical riches for all. But Carmen is not merely one show-stopping number after another. With director John Fulljames (Nixon in China 2020) at the helm and a design team led by Sarah Beaton and Christina Cunningham, Carmen’s iconic images are delivered amidst the unrest and upheavals of 1970s Spain, where the investigation into Carmen’s murder runs alongside the systems that led to her death. Carmen is the eternal outsider, carving out a life by her own rules in a militaristic and patriarchal society. The contrast of an often buoyant score and much crowd-driven action with the libretto’s introspective psychological darkness makes Carmen an endlessly fascinating work. With Justina Gringyte in the title role and featuring four of Scottish Opera’s 22/23 Emerging Artists – Zoe Drummond, Lea Shaw, Osian Wyn Bowen, and Colin Murray – don’t miss the chance to see the Company’s timely take on this timeless masterpiece. Sung in English with English supertitles Translation by Christopher Cowell Access Carmen - Fri 26 May 3pm Running time approx. 2 hours Scottish Opera’s accessible afternoon performances make coming to a favourite opera as easy and stress-free as possible – keeping the drama on stage where it belongs! With Dementia Friendly values at their core, these shortened performances are open to all. Performed by a full cast and orchestra, they also feature a narrator to take you through the story and introduce the music from the opera. There are wheelchair spaces and extra staff on hand to help. There is also a smaller capacity to allow everyone space, and brighter lighting levels in the auditorium, giving you the flexibility and freedom to move about as required. So whether you’re living with dementia, recovering from an operation, have Long Covid, or are simply anxious about coming back to the theatre post pandemic – you can relax and enjoy everything opera has to offer. Pre-show talk - Sat 27 May 6pm This half-hour session delves into the detail of Carmen, enhancing your enjoyment and extending your knowledge of the piece. Tickets are free but should be reserved in advance as there is limited availability. Relaxed performance, Dementia friendly, Access Carmen Pre show talk