Carlos Acosta's Carmen

Carlos Acosta is bringing his production of Carmen to the Theatre Royal Brighton, running from 29 April to 2 May 2026. This two-act dance piece reimagines Georges Bizet’s classic opera through a blend of contemporary ballet, flamenco, and Cuban dance styles. The choreography is led by Acosta himself, performed by his company, Acosta Danza, which is based in Havana. The creative team includes Tim Hatley on set and costume design, with Peter Mumford handling the lighting. The musical score, arranged by Rodión Shchedrin, integrates Cuban influences into Bizet’s original composition, creating a distinct soundscape for the performance.

The performance lasts one hour and 40 minutes, including an interval. It is staged in a minimalist setting, focusing on the core themes of the original opera. If you are planning to attend, it is worth noting that the production contains mild sexual references and a simulated stabbing scene. The cast features dancers such as Wendy Friol, Ofelia Semanat, Adria Díaz, Daniela Urgelles, and guest artist Alejandro Silva. The show runs on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday at 19:30, with two performances on Saturday at 14:30 and 19:30. It is a production that draws on the technical skill of the Havana-based company, presenting the narrative through movement rather than dialogue.

Tickets start from £24.00, though prices fluctuate depending on the day, so checking the booking calendar is the best way to see current availability. The Theatre Royal is located on New Road, BN1 1SD. For those arriving by train, it is about a 10-minute walk from Brighton station via Queen's Road and North Laine. If you are driving, there are parking options at the NCP Theatre on Church Street or Trafalgar Street, both just a couple of minutes away. Buses also stop frequently on North Street, which is a short walk from the theatre entrance. Given the age of the building, which is a Grade II* listed site, it is worth planning your arrival time to navigate the area comfortably.