Carmen to be performed in the open air at Badlands Amphitheatre

By Medicine Hat News on August 2, 2018.

Medicine Hat News

The first open air opera in Alberta arrives at the Badlands Amphitheatre Aug. 4 with its soaring arias, live orchestration, enduring melodies and performances by three Canadian opera stars.The three include: Métis/Canadian mezzo-soprano Rebecca Cuddy of Toronto, tenor Boris Derow of Edmonton and soprano Michaela Chiste of Okotoks.

Carmen in the Badlands is a three-way collaboration involving the Badlands Amphitheatre; Opera Classica Europa of Germany and Mercury Opera of Edmonton.

Set in Seville during the 1800s, Carmen tells the tragic story of a temptress gypsy and the soldier she convinces to let her escape prison. Created by French composer Georges Bizet, Carmen is one of the most beloved and often produced operas in the world.

While the nearly three hour opera (with one 20-minute intermission) will have many jaw dropping moments, one should keep a close eye on mezzo-soprano songstress Anna Goma, who plays the role of Carmen, says Michael Vaccaro, founder and Director of Germany’s Opera Classica Europa.

“When Anna sings the “Habenera” and the “Seguidilla,” she is actually dancing and singing together. To dance and sing at the same time is a huge challenge for any opera singer, and Anna makes it look and sound effortless, a testament to her singing and dancing prowess.”

Tickets for the Aug. 4 presentation are now on sale at Badlands Amp and over the phone at 403-823-2001.

The Badlands Amphitheatre site opens at 5 p.m. as does the Festival Tent with its quality wine and beer service.Carmen begins at 7 p.m.

Following on the heels of its successful 25th anniversary of the Badlands Passion Play, the Badlands Amphitheatre is host to the following in August: