This autumn, English National Opera welcomes back Calixto Bieito’s critically acclaimed production of Carmen, running from 8 October to 5 November 2025 at the London Coliseum.
Originally staged in 2012, this marks the fourth revival of Bieito’s bold interpretation, which relocates Bizet’s classic to 1970s Spain during the final days of Franco’s regime.
Described by The Guardian as a “tense and atmospheric production,” Carmen remains one of the most beloved operas of all time, featuring unforgettable melodies like the seductive ‘Habanera’ and Escamillo’s rousing ‘Toreador Song’.
Conducting duties are shared between two rising stars: Clelia Cafiero and Olivia Clarke. Cafiero leads performances on 8, 11, 15, 17 and 23 October, while Clarke takes the baton on 25, 29, 31 October and 3 & 5 November.
“Shimmers with every one of the company’s strengths,” said The Stage of the production, while Bachtrack hailed it as “rousingly splendid.”
Revival Director Jamie Manton, twice Olivier Award-nominated, returns alongside Fight and Intimacy Director Haruka Kuroda to bring Bieito’s vision back to life.
Irish mezzo-soprano Niamh O’Sullivan stars in the title role, praised for her “bewitchingly beautiful, dark vibrant voice” (Süddeutsche Zeitung). She is joined by tenor John Findon as Don José, Cory McGee as Escamillo, and Ava Dodd as Micaëla.
The cast also includes Freddie Tong as Zuniga, Jolyon Loy as Moralès, Harriet Eyley and Siân Griffiths as Carmen’s friends Frasquita and Mercédès, Patrick Alexander Keefe as Dancairo, and Osian Wyn Bowen as Remendado.
Set design is by Alfons Flores, with costumes by Mercè Paloma and lighting by Bruno Poet. The production features a translation by Christopher Cowell.
Under 21s can attend for free, and discounted tickets are available for 21–35-year-olds. General admission starts at £15.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
