We have to talk about The Dallas Opera’s season opener, Carmen by George Bizet. This isn’t your average production; this show is a recreation of the original production that premiered at the Opéra-Comique in Paris in 1875. The Dallas Opera is the first American opera house to offer this special revival. What an honor to be there opening night!

The hand-painted sets and costumes are absolutely magnificent and knowing this is what opera enthusiasts would have seen 150 years ago was such a special experience. We literally gasped when the curtain opened and we saw the jaw-dropping act I set. The production is mesmerizing from start to finish.

My friend Hope and I took lots of pictures on the red carpet before walking across the street to Ellie’s. I love how walkable the Dallas Arts District is! We enjoyed cocktails, whipped feta with pita bread and veggies, redfish, and the most incredible vanilla custard for dessert before walking back to the Winspear Opera House for the festivities. 

Opening night of the season is always my favorite because everyone is dressed to the nines and the people watching is amazing! Carmen is three and a half hours long but honestly it didn’t feel like it at all. It’s such an exciting show and the talent as The Dallas Opera always sensational so it truly flew by.

If I had to choose a favorite act, I have to go with Act II. The chemistry between Carmen (Marina Viotti) and Don Jose (Saimir Pirgu) was out of control and the tavern set was absolutely gorgeous. You have one more weekend to see this magnificent production! I hope you love it as much as I did.

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