Kristine Opolais has withdrawn from the title role of Bizet’s “Carmen” at the Oper Im Steinbruch.

The soprano took to social media and said, “After much consideration, I have decided to withdraw from my debut as Carmen at Oper im Steinbruch this summer. I’ve spent a lot of time with this music in the last months, and I feel the role is not one I want to add to my repertoire at this time. Many thanks to the team for their understanding, I am sending all my best to them for a fantastic summer season. To my dear fans, I look forward to seeing and sharing music with you again very soon!”

The news comes after the soprano announced her role debut last November. At that time she said, “So many sopranos have performed this role throughout the decades, and for me this is a way to think outside of the box, without limits. Carmen’s passion and strength inspire me, and I cannot wait to take this artistic journey under the stars, surrounded by incredible Roman ruins.”

Opolais returns to the stage in September for the Herbstgold-Festival.