Search - Franck Leguerinel, Olivier Lallouette, Vincent le Texier :: Bizet: Carmen / Lombard

From Buenos Aires to Tokyo, Carmen is often performed at the world?s great opera houses. Different directors see her as a whore or as a fickle woman, as a fiery brunette or as a gypsy sorceress; but Carmen also has a sense of humour, and she is goodhearted and warm. Her personality has captivated audiences everywhere; it is complex and the singer who takes on the role must have not only a strong character but also a keen sense of drama and great stamina, for the role is very demanding. Béatrice Uria-Monzon has been performing this role brilliantly for several years now; she has sung Carmen all over the world. Today she is recognised as an ideal Carmen, with just the right physique and vocal qualities, and she lives the role of the gypsy girl like no one else. She is full of charm in the habanera (?L?amour est un oiseau rebelle?), sensual in her dance for Don José in Act II, sombre in Act III, and finally steadfast and resolute as she faces death at the end. The various productions in which Béatrice Uria-Monzon has taken part have enabled her to discover and delve deeply into the various facets of Carmen?s character, and the vision she now presents is quite amazing. Seeing her on stage and listening to her are unforgettable experiences; she bewitches Don José and audiences alike.