The National Theatre Prague is set to present a new production of “Carmen” this March.

The opera, which opens on March 10 and 12 will star Nana Dzidziguri and Ester Pavlů as Carmen; Luis Gomez and Michal Lehotský as Don José; Łukász Golinski and Svatopluk Sem as Escamillo; and Kateřina Kněžíková, Alžběta Poláčková and Jana Sibera as Micaäla.

Grischa Asagaroff directs the production with Petr Popelka conducting the Prague Radio Symphonic Orchestra.

“Unconditional freedom – that is the supreme value for the untameable Carmen. And that is, I think, the idea that speaks even to today’s generations,” said Asagaroff in an official statement.

Asagaroff staged the opera on several occasion, with one production headlined by mezzo-soprano Agnes Baltsa.

“I think that she should keep a certain secret charisma and an air of elusiveness. Carmen is an amazing role, envied even by sopranos. It has everything – emotions, rhythm and beautiful melodies,” said Ester Pavlů about how she hopes to interpret the role. “At the same time, it is a most easily accessible opera for the general audience. Although flamenco fans might enjoy it even more.”