Carmen – a ballet by Liam Scarlett at Den Norske Opera & Ballett

The Norwegian National Ballet’s Carmen is back, performed to Georges Bizet’s well-known music. Choreographer Liam Scarlett has created a steamy and dramatic classical ballet, which was enthusiastically received by a full house upon its première in the spring of 2015. “Carmen as a ballet is a circus, tragedy and costume drama, elegantly choreographed and with focus firmly centred on Carmen’s heart-breaking story,” wrote the Norwegian newspaper Aftenposten.

For the uncompromising Carmen, who insists on loving who she chooses, meeting Don José proves to be disastrous. Nevertheless, choreographer Liam Scarlett wanted to highlight the love between the characters, and what drives them: “I want the audience to empathise with both Carmen and Don José. I have attempted to make this into as great a love story as possible, even though it ends with a murder.”

Scarlett and designer Jon Bausor chose to set the story in 1930s Spain, just before the outbreak of civil war. This is a world where everyone must fend for themselves – where one must do whatever is necessary to survive – and where the intensity of the dance sequences will have you on the edge of your seat! The piece is expertly interpreted and brought to life by The Norwegian National Ballet’s strong dancers, and Georges Bizet’s captivating and seductive music has been arranged by Martin Yates.

“Magic”, “fantastic”, and “red hot” are just some of the descriptions of the performance that have been shared on social media, and the story of the freedom-seeking seducer is now ready to be danced again.
British choreographer Liam Scarlett is Artist in Residence at the Royal Ballet in London, and is one of the most sought-after choreographers in the world. He has previously choreographed The Firebird and Vespertine for The Norwegian National Ballet.