Prosper Mérimée is the original author of a story that combines two raw emotions that lead to a dangerous ending.
The story, "Carmen," was adapted to an opera by Georges Bizet in 1875. Despite the opera being more than 100 years old, Robert Myers, director of John R. Emens Auditorium, said the themes of romance and passion are still relevant today.
Tonight at Emens Auditorium students and faculty members will have the chance to watch the Teatro Lirico D'Europa perform Carmen.
Since 2000, the Teatro Lirico D'Europa has toured the United States with great success. Georgio Lalov, along with Yves Josse, created the company in 1988. The Teatro Lirico D'Europa is now part of the Jenny Kelly productions, according to Teatro Lirico D'Europa's Web site.
Myers said he has been in contact with the Jenny Kelly productions, as well as other opera companies.
"In previous years we have presented NYC opera as well as San Francisco Western Opera Theater," he said.
He admired the success the Teatro Lirico D'Europa has had so far in its career, he said.
"Touring opera is a most challenging task," he said. "Their ability to sustain business in the market is impressive."
Freshman nursing major Leslie Albers said she finds it interesting that an event such as "Carmen" will be presented on campus.
"I would really enjoy going to the opera," she said. "I think operas are an exquisite form of artistic expression."
"Carmen" is the story of Don Jose, a corporal in the Spanish cavalry who falls madly in love with a gypsy he was ordered to arrest. The passion of Don Jose's love caused his desertion from the army, but the gypsy he fell in love with did not reciprocate his feelings. His blind fury and jealousy led him to kill the woman he loved.
Myers said he recommends students attend the show.
"Opera is growing in popularity nationwide," he said. "The story is about passion, sacrifice, jealousy and rejection. Themes that are just as relevant today."
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