November 30th – Dec. 1st, 2024 Forum am Schlosspark, Ludwigsburg
January 25th – 26th, 2025 Théâtre Suresnes Jean Vilar, Suresnes
January 28th, 2025 Théâtre Alexandre Dumas, Saint-Germain-en-Laye
January 30th, 2025 Le Manège Maubeuge, Maubeuge
February 2nd, 2025 Scènes & Cinés, Istres
February 4th, 2025 Grand Théâtre de Provence, Aix-en-Provence
February 7th, 2025 Le Carré, Sainte-Maxime
February 11th, 2025 Romans Scènes, Roman-sur-Isère
February 15th, 2025 Théâtre de Roanne, Roanne
February 18th – 21st, 2025 Maison de la Danse, Lyon
90 minutes
Carmen by
Tunis Opera Ballet
Georges Bizet’s “Carmen” is one of the most famous operas in the world. Still, in Tunisia, it was shown for the very first time in February 2024 – and then as a choreographic opera with the ballet ensemble at the Tunis Opera House. Abou Lagraa, the choreographer, has been working with North African artists for many years. As the child of Algerian and Egyptian parents, his dance roots are, for once, not in hip-hop, but in contemporary dance, including with S.O.A.P., Rui Horta’s legendary Frankfurt company.
In order to find his way back to the pure emotions that underlie the famous arias, Lagraa opted for a sparse, almost minimalist production. For him, the title character not only represents the idolized, teasing seductress, but above all freedom until death. Carmen is the romantic concept of an emancipated woman – a woman who poses a danger to men. Lagraas’ interpretation of the plot draws on the oriental perspective of the story. He deliberately portrays a Carmen of the nomads, the Berbers, and ancient North African people. The choreography oscillates in wave movements and is reminiscent of the power of the Mediterranean Sea that unites the Maghreb and Europe.