News

Darius Campbell to Take Starring Role in Carmen at The O2

April 14, 2010

Exclusive performance for one show only
The world’s most popular opera comes to the world’s most popular music venue
Over 200 performers including dancers, acrobats and fire eaters

Darius Campbell has announced he will be performing in The O2′s first opera, Raymond Gubbay’s spectacular production of Carmen. This will be Darius’ first major operatic role since he won ITV’s Popstar to Operastar. Darius will undertake the principal role of Escamillo on Sunday 23rd May at 2.30pm, whose world famous aria Song of the Toreador he sang in Popstar to Operastar, captivating millions of viewers.

Over 200 performers including dancers, acrobats, fire eaters and the wonderful Royal Philharmonic Orchestra will bring to life the dusty atmosphere of the town square, the cool night air of the smugglers’ mountain hideout, and the colourful festivities outside the bullring in Seville. Directed by David Freeman, founder of The Opera Factory and whose previous credits include Madam Butterfly, Tosca and Carmen at the Royal Albert Hall, this production of Bizet’s masterpiece comes to The O2 on a never seen before spectacular scale.

Darius commented: “It’s an absolute privilege to undertake the role of Escamillo in Carmen, one of the most famous operas in history. I thoroughly enjoyed my time on Popstar to Operastar and learning the discipline of opera was tough but hugely rewarding. This opportunity, however, takes it to the next level and I cannot wait to get started. I want to personally thank Raymond and the rest of the production for allowing me to be part of what will no doubt be an incredible experience for all concerned, both cast and audience.”

Raymond Gubbay, impresario and classical music promoter, added: “It is a great pleasure to be welcoming Darius to this exciting project for his debut operatic performance. I watched Darius’s progress on Popstar to Operastar with great interest. To move from pop to opera is hugely ambitious but I know Darius’ passion and dedication to this project will result in a very fine performance as Escamillo. We will be fully supporting him and I look forward to seeing his career develop.”

Sung in English, Bizet’s unforgettable score contains some of opera’s finest arias and best loved music. The beguiling Seguidilla, the tantalising Habanera and the enchanting Flower Song – sensual music that perfectly captures the very essence of Spain. Conducted by Gareth Hancock, this world class company of singers, musicians and artists, together with a spectacular set and lavish costumes, will provide an unforgettable and epic production of Carmen.

The principle roles will be shared by Cristina Nassif and Louise Poole (as Carmen), John Hudson and Philip O’Brien (as Don Jose) with Kevin Greenlaw and Darius Campbell (as Escamillo).

The production is designed by David Roger whose previous credits include operas for English National Opera, Opera North and the Kirov; lighting by multi Tony Award winning Andrew Bridge (Phantom of the Opera, Fosse, Sunset Boulevard); choreographed by Robert North (former Artistic Director of Ballet Rambert, Teatro Regio (Torino) and Scottish Ballet) with sound design by Bobby Aitken and English translation by the acclaimed Amanda Holden.

This is The O2’s second collaboration with Raymond Gubbay after the hugely popular ‘Christmas Spectacular’ in December.

Performances of Carmen are:-

Friday 21 May @ 7.30pm
Saturday 22 May @ 7.30pm
Sunday 23 May @ 2.30pm (with Darius Campbell as Escamillo)

Tickets are available via www.theo2.co.uk or by calling 0844 856 0202. Tickets are priced between £25 and £60 with a Gold Circle ticket at £95 which includes a complimentary souvenir programme. All tickets are subject to booking fees.