Classic Busan Hosts Carmen, Busan Opera House Open-Air Opera Festival
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Classic Busan Hosts Carmen, Busan Opera House Open-Air Opera Festival
□ Classic Busan brings the Busan Opera House Open-Air Opera Festival, Carmen, to a specially constructed stage on the North Port Landmark Site from July 11–12, 2026.
○ In cooperation with the Busan Port Authority, this cultural project is designed to give residents an opportunity to enjoy a world-class opera ahead of the launch of the Busan Opera House.
○ Art Director Chung Myung-whun, the Asia Philharmonic Orchestra, and internationally renowned vocalists are expected to deliver a memorable summer evening in Busan.
□ Carmen, one of the most celebrated operas in history, is a masterpiece by French composer Georges Bizet, featuring beloved arias such as Habanera and the Toreador Song.
□ Anticipation is especially running high as Carmen returns under Chung’s baton.
○ In 2025, Chung received acclaim from critics and audiences alike for mounting Carmen during the Busan Concert Hall Grand Opening Festival. This year, he is set to introduce a more refined aesthetic vision.
○ Set against the vast backdrop of Busan’s North Port, the performance blends opera with the appeal of an outdoor event. Director Eom Suk-jeong promises a bold and spectacular presentation, with striking visual elements that fully utilize the expanse of the waterfront, making the opera accessible and engaging even for newcomers.
○ Mezzo-soprano Michèle Losier, who earned widespread praise for her portrayal of Carmen last year, reprises the title role. She is joined by tenor Kim Jung-hoon, who has performed at prestigious opera institutions across Europe, including the Royal Opera House in London, as Don José, and baritone Lee Dong-hwan, a professor at the Korea National University of Arts, as Escamillo. Busan-based baritone Ahn Se-beom appears as Morales.
○ Musical accompaniment is provided by the Asia Philharmonic Orchestra. The Classic Busan Chorus, the Haeundae-gu Juvenile Chorus, and Kairos Dance Company are also set to participate, further enhancing the scale and production value of the show.
□ Food trucks will offer a variety of dishes and beverages throughout the venue.
○ At the Picnic Zone, attendees can eat with family and friends while taking in the performance alongside the harbor nightscape. By combining classical music, gastronomy, and the atmosphere of a relaxed gathering, the festival aims to create a welcoming experience.
□ Admission is free of charge. There are two seating options: the Chair Zone in front of the stage and the Picnic Zone, which allows for casual viewing.
○ Starting at 14:00 on June 24, reservations can be made online at classicbusan.busan.go.kr/Home/ko/Main. For questions, please contact Classic Busan at 051-640-8888.
□ Advance ticket holders are permitted to enter from 17:00. If reserved seats are left unclaimed or remaining seats are released, extra tickets will be distributed on-site after 19:00.
○ Rain may result in cancellations; any updates will be announced when necessary.
Carmen: https://classicbusan.busan.go.kr/product/performance/253166
