AFTER the drama which brought this production to an unexpected halt in Act Three the company was barely fazed as they launched back into a superlative performance of Bizet's tearjerker.
 Once again, Ellen Kent's Opera International has turned up trumps with the terrific Chisinau National Opera, along with the company's orchestra and a marvellous cameo from the Romale Gypsy Troupe who danced their hearts and soles out. And, even though Nadejda Stoianova's UK debut was brought to such a sad end when she was struck by nerves, she had already demonstrated enormous potential in the first couple of acts. Her sultry, haughty interpretation of Carmen deserves a full showing. Nicolae Busuioc introduced us to a storming Don Jose, the thwarted pursuer of Carmen, and fate dealt him a lucky card for a change as Nadejda's replacement, Tatiana Busuioc, is his wife. It has to be said that this certainly ensured the chemistry between them fizzled as they engaged in both frolics and banter. Tatiana's Carmen was much different to Nadejda's but equally as captivating. Yet it was Nicolae's solo pieces that soared, in particular when he sings of his adoration and love for Carmen despite her cruel actions. It was verging on a tour de force. The chorus is a powerful element in this production and entered into the fray with gusto. There were moments during the performance of Don Jose's own admirer, Micaela, by Irina Vinograova, when it was clear why live theatre and opera has a vitality all its own. She has a singularly captivating voice and a phrasing that enraptures. Ellen Kent is proud of the two Andalucian stallions that almost steal the credits in the last act. Unfortunately, the aptly-named Maverick was too frisky to risk on stage, leaving his stablemate Todo to take the honours. Despite the hiccups, this performance of Carmen was a deserved winner as the audience response indicated. Roll on tonight's Turandot. | 
