An article by F. G. (715 words, 4 min. read)
On Saturday, March 8, 2025, in celebration of International Women’s Day, the Al Bustan Festival presented a breathtaking rendition of La Tragédie de Carmen at the historic Al Bustan Hotel. This adaptation of Bizet’s timeless opera, conceptualized by Peter Brook in collaboration with Jean-Claude Carrière and Marius Constant, strips the original work to its essence, delivering a more intimate and emotionally charged version of the tragic story.
Unlike the grandiose production of Bizet’s original Carmen, this adaptation focuses solely on the four principal characters—Carmen, Don José, Micaela, and Escamillo—emphasizing their raw emotions and internal struggles. In just 90 minutes, the audience was immersed in a whirlwind of love, passion, jealousy, and the unwavering strength of Carmen, all brought to life by the stunning orchestration and deeply expressive performances.
Anita Rachvelishvili: The Ultimate Carmen
The iconic role of Carmen was performed by the world-renowned mezzo-soprano Anita Rachvelishvili, whose magnetic stage presence and commanding voice have made her one of the most celebrated interpreters of this role. Having performed Carmen over 500 times worldwide, including in Bizet’s original full-length version, Rachvelishvili expressed her deep connection to the character in a conversation with conductor Gianluca Marciano on Instagram.
For her, La Tragédie de Carmen highlights the most powerful and dramatic moments of the opera, presenting a fascinating and condensed version of the story. One of the most intriguing aspects of this adaptation, she noted, was the unique interaction between Carmen and Micaela, two characters who rarely meet on stage in the full-length opera. This fresh dynamic added another layer of emotional depth to the performance.
Carmen: A Symbol of Feminine Strength
Beyond its dramatic allure, Carmen is a role that transcends music. It is a statement of freedom, passion, and resilience. For Rachvelishvili, Carmen is the ultimate symbol of femininity. She’s a woman who refuses to be controlled, even at the cost of her life. She chooses to die rather than surrender to Don José’s jealousy and violence, embodying a fearless independence that continues to resonate with audiences today.
Rachvelishvili’s career was launched with this very role at La Scala, and while she is renowned for her interpretations of Verdi and Bizet, she believes that knowing when to say ‘no’ to certain roles is essential for preserving both vocal and mental health. She has since expanded her repertoire, taking on roles like Amneris in Verdi’s Aida and Dalila in Saint-Saëns’ Samson et Dalila, allowing her voice to mature naturally.
A Triumphant Return to Al Bustan
This performance marked Rachvelishvili’s second visit to the Al Bustan Festival, 11 years after her first. She expressed her deep affection for Lebanon, its people, and its rich musical heritage, describing how the warmth of the country and the hospitality of the Al Bustan Hotel make her eager to return year after year.
A World-Class Ensemble
Under the baton of Gianluca Marciano, the Al Bustan Festival Ensemble delivered a performance filled with passion and precision. The supporting cast was equally impressive:
• Eduardo Niave as Don José, whose tortured love for Carmen drove him to his tragic downfall.
• María Zapata as Micaela, embodying innocence and devotion.
• Gabriel Alonso as Escamillo, the confident toreador whose charisma and bravado captivated the audience.
Adding a unique touch to the festival was the presence of Alexander Boldachev, the celebrated harpist with the red socks and mesmerizing melodies. That very Sunday morning, he enchanted the audience with an impromptu performance by the sea at Ain Mreisseh in Beirut, proving once again that the Al Bustan Festival is not just about opera; it is a celebration of music in all its forms.
A Night to Remember
With its intense drama, stunning vocals, and masterful orchestration, La Tragédie de Carmen at the Al Bustan Festival was nothing short of a theatrical triumph. This unique adaptation allowed the audience to experience Bizet’s masterpiece in a fresh and deeply personal way, proving that Carmen’s spirit of passion and defiance remains as powerful as ever.
For those lucky enough to be in attendance, this was more than just a performance. It was a night of raw emotion, unforgettable music, and artistic brilliance.
