The world-famous opera Carmen will be staged in Saudi Arabia for the first time
The opera originally premiered in France in 1875
Calling all opera fans. For the first time in Saudi Arabia, the masterpiece opera Carmen by French composer Georges Bizet will be staged at the King Fahad Cultural Centre in Riyadh from Thursday September 4 to Saturday September 6.
Thanks to the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, the opera will be brought to life by the China National Opera House. The staging of Carmen in the Kingdom marks a milestone in cultural exchange, as it forms part of the official 2025 Saudi-China Cultural Year.
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The year 2025 marks not just the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations, but also the 150th anniversary of the debut of Carmen.
Carmen, first performed in 1875, is regarded as one of the greatest masterpieces in opera history. Set in Spain, the story follows the bold and independent character of Carmen and has become one of the most frequently performed works worldwide.
Carmen: Who is this woman who turns every head?
Opera doesn’t come much more dramatic than Carmen.
When Carmen meets Don José, sparks fly. She won’t give up her freedom, and Don José won’t give up his girl. Their smouldering passion sets the stage for tragedy, but first, Bizet gives us an adrenaline-pumping ride through lust, jealousy and spectacle.
This performance not only revives a love story filled with passion, desire, and tragedy but also brings to life the timeless melodies that have captivated generations.
Carmen has everything you want from an opera: high drama, passionate characters, and a love story. And what’s more, it’s absolutely packed with great melodies – even if you don’t know the opera, you’ll definitely know the tunes.
With meticulous investment in music, stage design, and costumes, this world-class production promises a magnificent classical art experience, immersing audience in every scene and every note. Carmen is undoubtedly an experience no one should miss. You’ll be drawn to the drama like moth to flame as this alluring opera brings you along to its edge-of-your-seat ending.
Tickets for Carmen are already on sale via Platinumlist. One for everyone’s bucket list, be sure to get your tickets quick as there are only three performances scheduled.
Location: King Fahad Cultural Centre, Ar Rafiah, Riyadh 12752
Timings: Sept 4 to 6, 8pm to 11pm (Doors open at 7pm)
Cost: SAR80 for Standard tickets, SAR120 for Silver, SAR200 for Gold, SAR360 for Platinum, SAR600 for VIP & SAR920 for Royal. Tickets can be purchased here.
Images: Social
