Vancouver Opera is set to close its 2023-2024 season with Georges Bizet’s “Carmen.”

The opera has not been performed at the company in 10 years and will be performed five times this season.

In a statement, Tom Wright, General Director of Vancouver Opera said, “Bizet’s masterful score, multi-level sets that straddle the spectacular and the seedy, and the promise of captivating performances by some of the opera world’s most talented artists has already driven tremendous audience interest in this production. Carmen is a must-see for both seasoned opera enthusiasts and those seeking an introduction to the mesmerizing world of classical music and storytelling. It’s an opera that has stood the test of time and continues to captivate audiences worldwide, so considering how audiences have responded in the past, we knew that offering an extended run of five performances was key to meeting the interest; in our 64-year history, we’ve never seen ticket demand like this!”

Rachel Peake directs the production while Leslie Dala conducts. The opera will star mezzo-sopranos Sarah Mesko and Carolyn Sproule sharing the role of Carmen and tenors Alok Kumar and Matthew White as Don Jose. The performances will also star soprano Jonelle Sills as Micaela, Nathan Keoughan as Escamillo, Alain Coulombe as Zuniga, and Luka Kawabata as Le Dancaire.

“Carmen” will be performed from April 27 to May 5, 2024.