Bizet’s Carmen at the Bastille Opera: the legendary classic reimagined by Calixto Bieito

The Bastille Opera House will present Carmen by Georges Bizet in a production directed by Calixto Bieito, running from February 7 to March 19, 2026. First premiered in 1875, this iconic opera delves into themes of freedom, desire, and destiny through the story of Carmen and Don José.

"If you don’t love me, I love you; if I love you, watch out" — does this familiar tune ring a bell? These words, drawn from one of the most iconic scenes of Carmen, perfectly capture the spirit of Georges Bizet’s renowned opera, now staged at Opéra Bastille from February 7 to March 19, 2026. As part of the institution’s lyrical season in Paris, the work has been given a contemporary reinterpretation under the direction of Calixto Bieito. First performed in 1875, this four-act masterpiece tells the story of a fiercely independent heroine who defies social conventions and faces the repercussions of her choices, ultimately leading to the downfall of those around her.

Set against the vibrant backdrop of Seville, the story follows Don José, a disciplined soldier whose life takes a dramatic turn after crossing paths with Carmen, a fiery factory worker. Enchanted by this elusive woman, he gradually abandons his duty, his honor, and any sense of stability. Carmen, for her part, rejects emotional restraint, defining herself solely through her desire and independence. This clash of worlds is destined to lead to tragedy, immersing the audience in a tale fueled by passion, jealousy, and inevitable fate.

Carmen de Bizet à l’Opéra Bastille : l’opéra mythique revisité par Calixto Bieito — ©Guergana Damianova / OnP

A Controversial Piece That Has Become a Classic

When it premiered at the Opéra-Comique on March 3, 1875, Carmen caused quite a scandal. The audience and some members of the press were shocked by the realism of its scenes and by the portrayal of a heroine seen as immoral for the time. Georges Bizet died just three months later at the age of 36, never knowing the international success that his final opera would later enjoy—a piece now regarded as one of the most performed works worldwide.

At the Opéra Bastille, director Calixto Bieito takes a bold departure from traditional staging and clichés often associated with the work. His production offers a deliberately stripped-down, straightforward interpretation that emphasizes the raw violence of human relationships and Carmen's relentless pursuit of freedom, even unto death. Some scenes, marked by intense emotionality, may be challenging for younger audiences or those unfamiliar with the story. Nevertheless, this approach underscores the timeless relevance of Carmen, whose themes continue to echo in contemporary issues.