An opera experience for young people

The first opera performance at the Vienna State Opera, organized exclusively for female visitors under 27 and was a resounding success: On June 11, more than 2,000 young people filled the venue on the Ring and experienced Georges Bizet’s classic opera Carmen in the sold-out opera house. For many guests, it was their first time at the opera —the young audience followed the roughly three-hour performance with rapt attention. Enthusiastic applause, loud cheering, including standing ovations, and a rousing atmosphere characterized the entire evening and made it an unforgettableexperience.

The 26-year-old Azerbaijani mezzo-soprano Elmina Hasan, who made her house debut as Carmen at the Vienna State Opera in early June, also impressed in yesterday’s performance in the title role. Also delivering strong performances were Freddie De Tommaso as Don José, Christian Van Horn as Escamillo, and Anna Bondarenko as Micaëla; Asher Fisch conducted.

Bogdan Roščić, Director of the State Opera: “The idea behind this evening is to give everyone experience firsthand the power of opera and why people from all over the world come to Vienna to sit in this hall.”

Starting at 6 p.m., visitors were treated to a free accompanying program. Among other things, two ensembles from the Vienna State Opera’s stage orchestra provided a musical warm-up, while a Carmen photo spot in the foyer invited guests to take souvenir photos. All guests also received a welcome drink from Sarti and a specially designed program booklet. Short guided tours through the opera house as well as an introduction to Bizet’s masterpiece provided fascinating insights andmade the work more accessible, especially for those new to opera. After the performance, a meet-and-greet with the artists in the opera café provided an opportunity for direct interaction.