To celebrate their 25th anniversary, Mid Wales Opera are bringing a brand new production of the much loved opera, Carmen, to Mansfield Palace Theatre.

Written in the genre of opéra comique with musical numbers separated by dialogue, this is the story of the downfall of Don José, a naïve soldier who is seduced by the fiery Carmen. José abandons his childhood sweetheart and deserts from his military duties, yet loses Carmen’s love to a glamorous rival, after which he kills her in a jealous rage.

The opera is directed by world-famous Jonathan Miller and stars Australian mezzo soprano Helen Sherman, who is described by The Guardian as ‘a smouldering peroxide-blonde heroine that is both sensuous and sassy. Helen has a magnetic presence even when she isn’t singing or centre stage.’

Carmen will be performed in English, using impressionist and comedian Rory Bremner’s translation of the libretto. His clever interpretation demonstrates a raunchy side of the libretto and uses dark humour in the dialogue between the soldiers and tobacco factory girls.

This exciting new production will feature a new version of Bizet’s score for chamber ensemble by renowned opera and music theatre composer Stephen McNeff.

Carmen is at Mansfield Palace Theatre on Sunday, 12 October at 7.30pm. Tickets are £19.48 Full / £18.45 Concs. / £12.30 Child / £56.38 Family of Four (including a 2.5% Booking Fee.) To book, please call the Box Office on 01623 633133 or book online at www.mansfield.gov.uk/palacetheatre