News Archive - Carmen

The Thameside Theatre, Grays is playing host to a full opera for the first time ever next week. Through a subsidy from the PSA Arts Team, Mid Wales Opera (MWO) is bringing its production of Carmen by Bizet to Thurrock on Thursday, 29 September at 7.30pm.

Mid Wales Opera is now firmly established as one of Britain's foremost touring opera companies. Recipient of various national awards, including two Prudential Opera Awards for "Excellence, creativity, innovation and accessibility", MWO's productions have now been performed in more than 80 venues across Great Britain and overseas.

Present-day audiences find it difficult to believe that Carmen, now recognised as one of the greatest operatic triumphs of all time, was condemned after its first performances in Paris as being "boring, obscene and undramatic". Against a background of exhilarating Spanish dance and the excitement of the bullring, the tale of Don Jose's tragic obsession with the beautiful and fiery gipsy girl, together with Bizet's enchanting music, is now beloved by audiences throughout the world.

In this new production, Mid Wales Opera continues it's tradition of original and thought-provoking work with an exciting team of young actor-singers, directed by Aidan Lang. Marvellous melodies, colourful characters and orchestration - a riveting tale of passion and tragedy combined in one of opera's greatest entertainments.

Don't miss this exciting opportunity, book now. Tickets are available from the Thameside Theatre Box Office on 01375 383961, priced at £15.00 each, or £7.50 each for school groups.