A new production of the beloved opera Carmen will take center stage this summer at the Hyogo Performing Arts Center, with performances running from July 17th to July 26th, 2026. Led by artistic director and conductor Yutaka Sado, the large-scale production marks the center's first staging of the classic in 17 years.

Set in Spain and known for its dramatic storytelling and instantly recognizable music, Carmen remains one of the world's most frequently performed operas. This new interpretation promises an innovative approach, created in collaboration with Italian director Lorenzo Mariani and a cast of internationally acclaimed performers.

Soprano Yurie Takano, who plays the passionate and free-spirited Carmen, describes the role as life-changing and hopes her performance will leave a lasting impression on audiences. She is joined by tenor Mario Rojas as Don José, bringing an emotionally intense portrayal shaped by his personal connection to the character's Spanish roots. The production also features the Hyogo Performing Arts Center Orchestra and chorus, along with community participation that reflects the center's aim of presenting opera as a shared cultural "festival."

Tickets go on general sale from March 1st, 2026, with advance sales available for members from late February.