Composer: Bizet, Georges (1838-1875)

For three decades, Acosta has given his audiences performances of pure pleasure. As someone who had to work against the odds to reach the top, he became one of those rare classical ballet dancers whose brilliance and incredible technical achievements, wrapped up with convincing characterisation and humble charisma, have set stages alight around the world.

A youthfully fresh corps and Victor Estévez hold together this uneven double bill, with Acosta’s troubled Carmen demonstrating the challenges of adapting opera to ballet.

A remarkable Leïla from Desiree Frahn and insightful direction from Michael Gow combine for a precious production of Bizet’s early masterpiece.

Paul Curran's movie-Like Carmen for Opera Philadelphia

François Leleux both conducts and plays the oboe in Edinburgh, initiating a strong partnership with the Scottish Chamber Orchestra.