ON POINT: In its current production of 'Carmen,' Opera San Jose is truly on the top of its craft.

In the world of opera, suffice to say Gypsy culture is a lot more visually interesting than the lives of the European gentry. Smoky, colorful rooms and mystical tones occupy much of Carmen, the classic story of an irresistible Spanish seductress.

Scored by French composer Georges Bizet, Carmen originally premiered in March 1875. Though it didn't catch on at first, it is recognized today as one of the most popular operas ever—both for its scandalizing plot and effervescent music. Opera San Jose's highly detailed and dynamic adaptation of Carmen, brings the classic tale of a rapacious and doomed Gypsy woman to the California Theatre in San Jose.

The character of Carmen, played by Lisa Chavez, is masterful. She fully inhabits the role; her voice is the raspy, seductive and moody—characteristics she maintains even during vocally challenging passages. Other notable performances include Opera San Jose staple Kirk Dougherty, as the vulnerable but secretly explosive Don Jose, and Christine Capsuto as Frasquita, one of Carmen's sly partners in crime. It wouldn't be fair to the refer to the choir as such, due to the individuality felt from even the most bit player in every scene, from street urchin to soldier.

The lighting and ambiance are also impeccable. The sets glow with a lackadaisical, but uniquely French, elegance. There is a subtle, but enduring sense of tone throughout the show that is affirmed by the fastidious detail to setting and scene. This is helped in large part by stage director Layna Chianakas, who has performed Carmen more than fifty times. Her love of the piece has taken her to the Gypsy/Romani community in Lebanon, where she travelled to further understand the context of the opera's famous protagonist.

The entire show is strong—even impeccable at certain moments, transcending everything I've ever witnessed in an Opera. This is seen in the panoply of dynamic action constantly bustling in the background of many scene. Ornate and sensual dance sequences, multi-part choral harmonies, and even sword fights all harden the vibrancy of the show.

Known for its subversion of operatic tropes, Bizet's Carmen has a nascent sexuality that is unabashed in comparison to its contemporaries. Even more than a century on, the show is raunchy, funny and provocative.

Carmen
Thru Feb 28,
$50-$150
California Theatre, San Jose