Richmond Theatre – 22 April 2026
Reviewed by Carly
5*****
Bizet’s Carmen at Richmond Theatre was nothing short of electrifying – a production that felt both timeless and vividly alive. From the moment the curtain rose, there was a palpable sense of anticipation in the room, quickly matched by the intensity on stage. By the final moments, that energy had built into something deeply affecting, leaving the audience completely absorbed in the story.
Bizet’s Carmen is both bold, emotional, and thoughtful. Every movement feels intentional, every sequence carefully crafted to push the narrative forward. There’s a seamless flow between scenes, with transitions that feel natural and unforced, allowing the drama to unfold with a compelling rhythm.
The portrayal of Carmen (Mariia Davydova) herself was magnetic. She commanded attention from the moment she appeared, embodying a character who is fiercely independent, unapologetically confident, and entirely in control of her own narrative – until, of course, the world around her begins to close in.
What made the performance particularly compelling was the nuance: beneath the bold exterior were fleeting glimpses of vulnerability that added depth without undermining her strength. It was a portrayal that felt layered and human, rather than purely symbolic. Alongside some truly astonishing vocals – what more could you ask for?
Don José (Hovhannes Andreasyan) provided a striking contrast. His journey from disciplined soldier to emotionally unravelled lover was handled with remarkable sensitivity, each stage marked by subtle shifts in movement and expression. Equally important was the presence of Escamillo (Iurie Gisca) , whose confident, charismatic energy offered a sharp counterpoint to José’s growing instability. The contrast between the two men—one controlled and increasingly consumed – the other assured and outwardly fearless—heightened the emotional stakes of the narrative. Carmen’s shifting attention towards Escamillo added another layer of tension, making José’s descent feel inevitable. By the final scenes, his desperation was almost uncomfortable to witness—not in a negative sense, but in a way that spoke to the emotional truth of the performance. The interplay between these three characters created a dynamic that was both compelling and, at times, deeply unsettling.
The supporting cast played a crucial role in bringing production to life. The ensemble scenes were vibrant and full of energy. There was a strong feeling of community within these moments, which made the tensions and conflicts all the more impactful when they arose. Rather than serving as mere background, the ensemble added texture and richness to the storytelling, enhancing the overall emotional landscape.
Visually, the production was both elegant and effective. The set design leaned towards minimalism, but in a way that felt purposeful rather than sparse. By avoiding unnecessary clutter, the focus remained firmly on the cast, whilst still creating a strong sense of place and atmosphere. Lighting was used with particular skill, shifting seamlessly to reflect the changing tone of the narrative. Warm, golden hues underscored moments of passion and celebration, while cooler, harsher lighting introduced a sense of unease as the story moved towards its darker conclusion. Costume design also played a significant role in establishing the production’s identity. Drawing on traditional Spanish influences and authenticity.
The music, rooted in Bizet’s iconic score, was handled with care and creativity with an outstanding live Orchestra at times bold and dramatic, at others restrained and intimate, adding another layer of depth to an already rich production. Themes of desire, freedom, control, and inevitability were explored with a level of honesty that made the narrative feel strikingly real. The tension built steadily throughout, culminating in a final scene that was both powerful and deeply affecting. It was handled with a restraint that made it even more impactful, leaving a lasting impression long after the performance had ended.
There was also a strong sense of connection between performers and audience throughout. It created an intimacy that elevated the entire experience, making it feel personal as well as visually and emotionally impressive.
This is a production that lingers in the mind. It succeeds not only through technical excellence but also through its ability to evoke genuine emotion and provoke thought. It is a compelling, well-known story, delivered with clarity, passion, and a strong sense of purpose-an experience that leaves a lasting impression well beyond the final curtain.