Barcelona Flamenco Ballet (BFB) turns to the eternal myth of Carmen in its latest project. This new reinterpretation of Georges Bizet’s work introduces innovative flamenco elements that were previously unseen. It transcends the traditional concept in which it has historically been categorized, adapting it to the realities of contemporary society. The values that make Carmen a woman of our time, along with the adaptation of music and flamenco ballet infused with the distinctive signature of David Gutiérrez, place the work within a new paradigm — that of the universal myth and 21st-century flamenco.

Though time has passed, Carmen still carries a message of freedom and courage in the face of an unequal world, where women continue to fight for their rights. Carmen stands as the prototype of a woman confronting a hostile and brutal male-dominated world — a world in which she does not survive, but leaves behind a lasting example. Carmen is pain, passion, and a cry for freedom — emotions that flamenco art masterfully conveys in its rawest and most primal form.

BFB tells the story written by Prosper Mérimée, delving into the love affair between the gypsy Carmen and the toreador Escamillo. Here too, flamenco becomes the perfect language of artistic expression — an ideal vehicle to transmit the characters’ passion and emotional intensity.

The characters of Mérimée, the music of Bizet, and the flamenco of BFB merge in a performance that is open to today’s audience. Fans of opera, flamenco, dance, music, theatre, and performing arts in general will discover a new aesthetic reference point in this Carmen, where the fusion of cultures and emotions opens the doors to 21st-century art.

Through Carmen, Barcelona Flamenco Ballet pays tribute to Prosper Mérimée and his relationship with Spain — and with Barcelona in particular. He knew the city well, spoke Catalan, and even understood the gypsy Caló language. Because of his ties to Barcelona and his love for diversity and cultural blending, BFB feels a deep sense of gratitude to the brilliant author Prosper Mérimée.