(abruptly interrupting the serious music) Oh for crying out loud, will you listen to this? “Carmen” is coming to Tokyo Nikikai, folks! (Mimics a bored tone) Oh, the esteemed opera that has been thrilling audiences for over a century… (yawns) Sorry, where was I? Ah yes, Tokyo Nikikai! It’s been 16 years since they’ve had the pleasure of gracing us with this magnificent piece, so do try to contain your excitement.
This fantastic production promises to be a treat, led by none other than the illustrious Masato Takada, who’ll be sharing his vast knowledge on all things “Carmen”. According to him, this opera is one of the three major ones in the world. (raises an eyebrow) Rather like saying Jimmy Carr is one of the three funniest comedians… okay, maybe just me and him then. (Chuckles) I digress.
It’s due to premiere at the Tokyo Bunka Kaikan Main Hall from February 20th to 24th, 2025. Save the date, folks, this will be like a right ‘ol bash – and might I add, (dramatic voice) it’s not to be missed! “Habanera” will echo through those halls like Ricky Gervais echoing a hearing aid – its clarity should give you goosebumps.
Due to performing at the rather esteemed Opéra Comique back in 1875, it was initially poorly received by those proper French folk. Apparently, they’re rather severe in their sense of humor and were used to more… ( tilting head) threadbare, sorry I mean lighthearted, entertainment. It did become all the rage after Bizet (and probably Mother Nature) decided it was its turn, but not before kicking the bucket at the ripe age of 36. Talk about life teaching you the symphony on the flute. (Darkly chuckles)
Among those overseeing it this time is Director Irina Brook, with Maestro Nodoka Okizawa expertly guiding the Yomiuri Nippon Symphony Orchestra. Here, if you care for the entire cast’s inside scoop, headlined are Nozomi Kato, Hironori Jo, and the exceedingly charismatic Shunsuke Imai – Chohi Wada might win a competition for charisma – performing over two days. Taking roles we all love in various guises will be Ena Miyaji and Gohei Furuhashi. So be ready, and if fate conspires you lucky enough to gain a seat at this prestigious affair then, any tips would be truly divine.
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In February 2025, the esteemed Tokyo Nikikai Opera will once again bring Georges Bizet’s timeless masterpiece, “Carmen,” to the stage after a 16-year hiatus. A special lecture and concert event was held at the Kawai Omotesando Concert Salon Pause on November 14, 2024, to create buzz around the upcoming production, and we have received an exclusive report on the proceedings.
The event commenced with a comprehensive lecture on “Carmen” by renowned tenor Masato Takada, who will be playing the role of Remendado in the production. Takada’s engaging and humorous talk breathed new life into the classic opera, providing attendees with a rich understanding of the work’s intricacies and nuances. By sharing his insights, he successfully transported the audience into the enchanting world of “Carmen.”
Considered one of the world’s three major operas, alongside “Madame Butterfly” and “La Traviata,” “Carmen” remains a beloved favorite among opera enthusiasts and novices alike. Despite its humble beginnings, the opera’s popularity has endured, with numerous performances worldwide every year. The work’s familiarity extends beyond the opera world, as its iconic melodies have been featured in various instrumental arrangements, making it accessible to a broader audience.
Tragically, Bizet passed away at the tender age of 36, just a few months after the opera’s premiere in Paris in 1875. The composer’s untimely death meant he never lived to witness the meteoric rise of “Carmen” to global fame. Initially, the opera received a lukewarm reception, but it eventually gained momentum, and its popularity spread like wildfire after Bizet’s passing.
“Carmen” main visual
Takada shed light on the factors contributing to the opera’s initial unpopularity, attributing it to the characteristics of the theater where it premiered. The Opéra Comique, under Napoleon Bonaparte’s supervision, primarily featured light and comedic operas, which clashed with the dark and dramatic tone of “Carmen.” This disparity in style and tone led to a mismatch between the audience’s expectations and the opera’s intense narrative, resulting in its initial poor reception.
Despite this, “Carmen” garnered attention in certain circles, and its subsequent performance in Vienna marked a turning point in its history. The opera’s success in Vienna paved the way for its global popularity, ultimately fulfilling Tchaikovsky’s prophecy that “Carmen” would become the pinnacle of opera within a decade.
Takada also delved into the history of “Carmen” performances by the Tokyo Nikikai Opera. The company’s first production of “Carmen” took place in 1954, starring Shizuko Kawasaki, one of the founders of Nikikai, as the titular character. Kawasaki’s captivating performance earned her the nickname “Carmen Oshizu,” cementing her reputation as a talented soprano. The role has since been passed down to notable artists, including Naoko Ihara, with Nozomi Kato and Chohi Wada set to take on the iconic role in the 2025 production. Both Kato and Wada boast impressive credentials, with Kato having performed in the Bari Petruzelli Opera’s “Madama Butterfly” and Wada being affiliated with the Deutsche Oper Berlin.
Carmen: Nozomi Kato
Carmen: Chohi Wada
During the lecture, Takada analyzed the impact of Carmen’s character on the story, highlighting the geographical significance of Seville, where the opera takes place, and the Basque region, Don José’s homeland. He also explored the cultural context, providing attendees with a deeper understanding of the work’s complexities and themes. The audience’s interest in the opera was undoubtedly piqued, leaving them eagerly anticipating the upcoming production.
The event’s second half featured a concert, with Takada taking on the role of Don José. He was joined by an exceptional cast, including the talented Ena Miyaji as Michaela and Yuki Toyoshima as Carmen cover. The powerful vocals and captivating performances, accompanied by Naoka Furuno’s masterful piano accompaniment, electrified the audience. The concert’s pièce de résistance was the iconic aria “Habanera,” which left the audience in awe.
Michaela: Ena Miyaji
From left: Masato Takada, Ena Miyaji, Yuki Toyoshima, Nanaoka Furuno
The highly anticipated Tokyo Nikikai Opera production of “Carmen” is scheduled to take place at the Tokyo Bunka Kaikan Main Hall from February 20 to February 24, 2025. Under the baton of conductor Nodoka Okizawa and performed by the Yomiuri Nippon Symphony Orchestra, this promises to be an unforgettable performance.
Performance information
“Carmen”
Opera in 4 acts performed in original language (French) with Japanese subtitles
Date: February 20th (Thursday) to February 24th, 2025 (Monday/Closed)
Venue: Tokyo Bunka Kaikan Large Hall
Composer: Georges Bizet
Conductor: Nodoka Okizawa
Directed by: Irina Brook
Chorus: Nikikikai Choir
Orchestra: Yomiuri Nippon Symphony Orchestra
Cast
Carmen: Nozomi Kato
Don Jose: Hironori Jo
Escamillo: Shunsuke Imai
Michaela: Ena Miyaji
Zuniga: John Hao
Morales: Daiki Murooka
Dan Cairo: Tatsuhiko Kitagawa
Remembrance: Masato Takada
Frasquita: Kiyoka Mitsui
Mercedes: Yuki Sugiyama
Carmen: Chohi Wada
Don Jose: Gohei Furuhashi
Escamillo: Takashi Yonashiro
Michaela: Yui Nanasawa
Suniga: Kenji Saiki
Morales: Yoshihiko Miyashita
Dan Cairo: Hiroshi Okawa
Remembrance: Nobuyuki Okawa
Frasquita: Yukari Seino
Mercedes: Asami Fujii
*Performers may change due to unavoidable circumstances.
