Free 'Carmen' Opera Comes to Peninsula Park

A Celebration of Opera in the Park

This Sunday, Peninsula Park will come alive with the timeless melodies of Bizet’s "Carmen," a production that promises to bring the magic of opera to a wide audience. The free event, organized by Opera in the Park, marks the 150th anniversary of this iconic opera, known for its unforgettable arias such as the “Habanera,” “Seguidilla,” and the “Toreador Song.” These pieces have become part of popular culture, often featured in commercials, movies, and even cartoons.

The performance will be conducted by Nicholas Fox, who has deep knowledge of the music through his work as the Associate Music Director at Portland Opera. Fox believes that "Carmen" is a perfect opera that offers incredible musical experiences for both seasoned opera lovers and newcomers.

“Whether you're a seasoned operagoer or a newbie, it’s a wonderful show to experience. You just have to bring your lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy,” he said.

Last year, Fox led a production of Verdi’s “La Traviata” at Peninsula Park, which attracted over five thousand attendees. However, outdoor performances come with their own set of challenges.

“The challenges are logistical rather than musical,” Fox explained. “There's this thing called the wind that I might have to contend with. I need to make sure that the pages of my score stay put. And the wind can play havoc with the microphones that the singers use.”

Fox will lead a 40-piece orchestra, soloists, and a large chorus in a reduced version of the opera that lasts 90 minutes. Due to city regulations, the event must conclude within two hours, including an intermission. As a result, some material has been cut, but all the highlights, including the famous arias and the final scene, remain.

Since the opera will be performed in French, Fox will provide a brief overview from the stage to help the audience follow the story.

The Story of Carmen

Set in Spain, the story revolves around Carmen, a fiery and independent woman who works in a factory and is part of a Roma clan. She seduces Don José, a naive soldier, leading him to abandon his sweetheart, Micaëla, and neglect his duties. When Carmen falls for the famous toreador Escamillo, Don José becomes consumed by jealousy and ultimately kills her.

The production features a strong cast, including mezzo soprano Sandra Piques Eddy in the title role. Eddy previously captivated audiences in a Portland Opera production. Joining her are tenor Lawrence Barasa as Don José, soprano Aubery Ballarò as Micaëla, and baritone Luis Ledesma as Escamillo.

Flamenco dancers Lillie Last and Nella McGuire from Espacio Flamenco will add a vibrant touch to the performance. Despite the limited stage space, they are ready to showcase their talents.

“There’s a saying that flamenco dancers can dance on a stamp,” Last said. “We don’t need much room to show what we can do.”

During intermission, students from Espacio Flamenco will perform a folk dance called Sevillanas, inviting the audience to join in.

Logistics and Community Impact

According to Ashley Clark, Executive Director of Opera in the Park, this will be the first time the organization produces the entire "Carmen" production. Previously hosted by the city, the group now self-produces due to financial cutbacks. The event costs about $90,000, with everyone contracted and no full-time employees.

For the staging, microphones, sound system, porta potties, security, and other necessities, Opera in the Park has partnered with Fuller Events. The company, known for handling major outdoor events, recently managed logistics for the Waterfront Blues Festival and the launch of the Portland Fire WNBA team.

“It’s a logistical ballet,” said Christina Fuller, CEO of Fuller Events. “We have to plan way ahead for this because there are many multi-layered decisions to make, including noise variances for the neighbors because of the amplification.”

Clark emphasized the importance of bringing opera to communities that may not typically engage with it. “It can be a terrific way to build community,” she said.

Event Details

The event will take place on Sunday, July 27, at 6 p.m. at Peninsula Park, located at 700 N. Rosa Parks Way. Admission is free, and more information can be found at operaintheparkportland.org.