Catch opera preview of 'Carmen' in Miller Park

Elise Quagliata / CSO contributed photo
Elise Quagliata / CSO contributed photo

Opera returns to the Tivoli Theatre on April 11 and 13 with "Carmen," and you can get a free sampling of one of the world's most popular classical shows on Monday, April 8, in Miller Park at 11:30 a.m., presented by Chattanooga Symphony & Opera.

CSO Executive Director Samantha Teeter said Jonathan Susman, director of open spaces and activation with the city, reached out to her with the idea.

"We had an ensemble out there last year right after [the park] opened. We thought this would be a way to promote opera and let people see and hear it so they might want to see it in the theater."

At least four of the show's principal performers will be at Miller Park for Monday's preview, according to Andre Charitat, CSO marketing and communications manager.

"It will be partially costumed and partially staged," he said. "It will be like a 'best of' with all of the iconic things that people know: Carmen's 'Habanera,' Escamillo's 'Toreador Song' and Don Jose's 'Flower Aria.'"

Music Director Emeritus Robert Bernhardt will conduct.

"This is a beautiful opera," he said. "A powerful opera with a lot going on, and the music is both beautiful and familiar."

"Carmen" was not an immediate success for composer Georges Bizet upon its release in 1875. It would take a decade to become a fan favorite. Today, the story of the fiery gypsy girl who seduces Don José is one of the most popular operas in the world.

Helena Binder is the stage director, while Elise Quagliata is Carmen. Richard Troxell is Don José, Jennifer Goode Cooper is Micaëla and Gregory Gerbrandt will sing the role of Escamillo.

Contact Barry Courter at bcourter@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6354.

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