The LA'Opera is presenting The Tragedy of Carmen Friday, May 18 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, May 20 at 2 p.m. in the Emy-Lou Biedenharn Recital Hall.
The performance features Alissa Anderson in the role of Carmen, the free-spirited gypsy who loves and discards several men. One of these men is Don José, a soldier played by Tyler Smith, who becomes so obsessed with Carmen that he leaves behind the army and his girlfriend Michaela, played by Betsy Uschkrat, to follow her. Ultimately, Carmen leaves Don José for the bullfighter Escamillo, played by André Chiang. The betrayal leads Don José to confront Carmen, with tragic consequences.
ULM students are also performing as the ensemble members. "The students get to be mentored and inspired by the professionals," according to Director Mark Clark.
Soloists Claire Vangelisti, Joann Martinson, and Jos Milton open the performance with brief excerpts from The Shepherd King by Mozart. Tickets can be purchased at Fiesta Nutrition, 1211 N. 18th St. in Monroe, online, or at the door before the performances.