Cape Town Opera Will Perform CARMEN At Artscape This Autumn
Nonhlanhla Yende stars in Steven Stead's new production with the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra
From 19 to 31 May 2026, Cape Town Opera will return to the grandeur of the classic repertoire with a dazzling new production of Georges Bizet's beloved opera Carmen. One of the most popular and electrifying works in the operatic canon, Carmen promises an unforgettable theatrical experience as Cape Town Opera (CTO) brings together a stellar cast, brilliant orchestration and vivid staging to Artscape that re-imagines Bizet's timeless tale of passion, freedom and fate.
Directed by acclaimed theatre-maker Steven Stead (The Rocky Horror Show, Twelfth Night, My Fair Lady, The Sound of Music), this new production set in 1931/32 transports audiences to sun-drenched Seville where desire, jealousy and destiny collide with tragic inevitability. From the opening bustle of the cigarette factory to the exhilarating spectacle of the bullring, Bizet's music pulses with Spanish colour and dramatic intensity. Aficionados and those new to opera will recognise many of opera's most iconic melodies, from the seductive 'Habanera' to the swaggering 'Toreador Song', in a score that has captivated listeners for more than a century, brought vividly to life by CTO's Vocal Ensemble, the CTO Children's Chorus, and the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO) conducted by Maestro Tim Murray.
The title role will be sung by the magnetic CTO House Soloist Nonhlanhla Yende, whose rich mezzo-soprano voice and commanding stage presence make her a natural fit for Bizet's fiercely independent heroine. Opposite her is tenor Lukhanyo Moyake as the ill-fated soldier Don José, whose obsessive love for Carmen drives the opera's tragic arc. International star and guest artist Vuvu Mpofu brings lyrical warmth to the soprano role of the devoted Micaëla, while baritone Conroy Scott is the charismatic bullfighter Escamillo. CTO House Soloist Brittany Smith as Frasquita and Judith Neilson Young Artist Khayakazi Madlala as Mercédès complete the principal cast.
A distinguished creative team shapes the visual and physical world of the production. Set designer Greg King will conjure a striking vision of Seville while Maritha Visagie's costumes evoke the sensuality of twentieth-century Spain. Choreography by Naoline Quinzin (The Rocky Horror Show, Spring Awakening) will be brought to life by a dynamic ensemble of professional dancers, seamlessly weaving movement into the storytelling and capturing the fiery spirit at the heart of Bizet's masterpiece.
Since its premiere in 1875, Carmen has remained one of the most frequently performed operas in the world, admired for its vivid characters, irresistible melodies and unflinching portrayal of human desire. Cape Town Opera's new staging embraces the opera's emotional intensity while offering a fresh theatrical vision that resonates with contemporary audiences.
“We are also so thrilled to be opening Carmen on 19 May when Artscape celebrates its 55th anniversary, a tremendous milestone!” says CTO's Artistic Director Magdalene Minnaar. "With an exceptional cast, bold creative direction and the thrilling power of live orchestral performance, Carmen at the Artscape Opera House promises to be one of the highlights on Cape Town's cultural calendar this year. "Performances on 19, 21, 27 and 29 May start at 7pm and the matinees on 23 and 31 May start at 2pm.
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