Music Academy of the West Presents “Carmen” in Honor of Opera Great Marilyn Horne

Music Academy of the West "Carmen," photo by David Bazemore.

Music Academy of the West “Carmen,” photo by David Bazemore.

 The Music Academy of the West will present a new, fully staged production of Georges Bizet’s timeless opera Carmen in honor of celebrated mezzo-soprano Marilyn Horne’s 80th birthday at Santa Barbara’s historic Granada Theatre. Directed by David Paul and conducted by James Gaffigan, the performances will take place at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, August 1, and at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, August 3.

In addition to Music Academy Voice and Instrumental Fellows, the Academy’s production will feature dancers from Santa Barbara’s State Street Ballet, choreography by William Soleau, and a chorus that includes local children.

For tickets and information, call 805.969.8787 or visit musicacademy.org.

—Leslie Dinaberg

Originally published in Santa Barbara SEASONS on July 28, 2014.