A voluble man-eater? A hysterical, superstitious young woman? Regardless, this is a tragedy of love that plummets into an abyss alongside a Mediterranean male who is as possessive as he is uncertain. The result is spectacular. With music that is packed with wild outbursts and powerful, Latin colour, Georges Bizet provides an irresistible rendition of a showdown like something that might make headline news. His choice of poly-folkloristic music (Spanish, Tzigane and Cuban) draws us into the reign of burning passion.

On 7 December, the opening night of Carmen will be shown live in cinemas across Europe and the United States. The TV channels Classica and Arte will also broadcast the event.