Carmen

Gainesville, Fla., February 1, 2023 — A timeless story of passion and many of the most recognizable melodies in the world combine for a special night of entertainment as the University of Florida (UF) Opera Theatre, UF Symphony Orchestra, and University of Florida Performing Arts bring Georges Bizet’s beloved opera Carmen to the stage. This production includes internationally renowned guest artists, stunning costumes, a magnificent set courtesy of the Sarasota Opera, and a wonderful cast of more than 120 talented student performers.

The most popular opera title in the world, Carmen is a roller-coaster ride of desire, love, and the relentless hand of fate. Alluring and irresistible, Carmen is a charismatic independent spirit who refuses to compromise her own liberty and right to live her life as she chooses. When her path collides with the young Corporal Don José, fate sets in motion a drama of tragic proportions.

A World-Class Cast;

Carmen, under the stage direction of award-winning Director Anthony Offerle, features an ensemble cast of professional artists and performers from the UF Opera Theatre, School of Theatre and Dance, and the Capella Nova Chorus of Gainesville. The 70-piece UF Symphony Orchestra will be led by Maestro Tiffany Lu in her debut at the Phillips Center. Chorus Master and UF alumnus Joshua Mazur leads the 40-voice-strong cast of bohemians, zingari, soldiers, cigarette girls, and revelers.

Featured guest artists include mezzo-soprano Kirstin Chávez as Carmen. Ms. Chávez is one of the world’s most sought-after interpreters of the role. Joining her is renowned tenor Matthew Morgan (Don José), and baritone Thaddeus Bourne (The Toreador), who have graced many international stages.

“Our students are very fortunate to have the opportunity to sing alongside professional opera performers like Kirstin, Matt, and Thaddeus,” said Dr. Anthony Offerle, artistic director of the UF Opera Theatre. “Kirstin is performing one of the most demanding and iconic roles in theatre and has starred with numerous opera companies including The Metropolitan Opera, The New York City Opera, Santa Fe Opera, and the Sydney Opera House. UF graduate and undergraduate singers will train closely with her and other professionals in and out of rehearsals and by attending master classes.”

“I am thrilled to be producing and directing such a well-known and beloved opera in North Florida,” Offerle said. “We’ve brought many wonderful pieces such as La Bohème, La Traviata, Tosca, The Magic Flute, and the world premiere of Stella Sung’s The Red Silk Thread to the Phillips Center. Bizet’s everlasting songs and lush harmonies are so familiar that this is a piece everyone will enjoy, from the first-time theatergoer to the most avid opera fan.”

The Curtis M. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, at 3201 Hull Road, Gainesville, FL 32611, will host two performances of Carmen on March 31 and April 1 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets, which range from $10 for all students (UF and K-12) and children to $40 for adults, may be purchased by phone at 352-392-ARTS (2787) or online at performingarts.ufl.edu.

Address

3201 Hull Road

Phone

352-392-1900

Phone 2

352-392-2787

Website

Curtis M. Phillips, M.D. Center for the Performing Arts Website