Carmen(1988)
This all-star cast is framed by Peter Hallâs gritty, realistic production and conducted by James Levine, who brings out all the surging emotion and gripping drama in Bizetâs score. At the center of the story is Agnes Baltsa, whose smoky mezzo is tailor-made for the gypsy Carmen, an independent woman who glories in obeying only her own rules, but who is haunted by fate. Superstar tenor JosĂŠ Carreras is Don JosĂŠ, the solider from a small town who catches Carmenâs eye and is destroyed by his growing obsession with her. Samuel Ramey is the charismatic matador Escamillo, who lures Carmen away from Don JosĂŠ with tragic result. Leona Mitchell is MicaĂŤla, the simple girl from Don JosĂŠâs hometown who cannot save him. March 21, 1987 Matinee Broadcast.