San Francisco Opera summer season – ‘Carmen’ and Gala Concert

Brian Jagde makes his highly anticipated return to San Francisco Opera this season, as Don José in Bizet’s smoldering classic, Carmen. This is a signature role for Mr. Jagde, who recently sang José to great acclaim at Deutsche Oper Berlin and the Teatro di San Carlo:

“Brian Jagde was an excellent Don José . . . he transcended in voice and the eloquence of his acting, and offered with Montiel artistic outbursts that I will remember forever. The end of the fourth act was dramatic and heartbreaking. A José madly in love and jealous that faces the refusal of his unbridled desires. Carmen’s murder was part of a vocal and gestural culmination that imprisoned all participants in a sublime musical delirium.” (Codalario)

Jagde takes the stage on May 27, 29 & 31; June 1, 17, 23, 26 & 30; and July 2 & 3 in Calixto Bieito’s thrilling staging, which is making its debut in the U.S. The production features alternating casts including Irene Roberts and Ginger Costa-Jackson in the title role, Ellie Dehn and Erika Grimaldi as Micaëla, and Zachary Nelson and Michael Sumuel as Escamillo, with Adam Diegel singing José on June 28. Carlo Montanaro leads from the pit (Jordi Bernàcer conducts for one performance) for this not-to-be-missed engagement. A free simulcast of Carmen will also be hosted on July 2 at AT&T Park, home of the San Francisco Giants. To register for the event visit the following link. Mr. Jagde will also sing the National Anthem at the Giants game on June 28 (7:15pm PT) to promote the simulcast.

Brian is also a featured soloist in a special Gala concert event this summer, celebrating the incredible career of San Francisco Opera General Director David Gockley. Artists featured include Renée Fleming, Ana María Martínez, Patricia Racette, Heidi Stober, Dolora Zajick, Eric Owens, and many more. The Gala, hosted by acclaimed mezzo-soprano Frederica von Stade and bass-baritone Samuel Ramey, takes place on June 16.

The evening also highlights the talents of the San Francisco Opera Orchestra and Chorus, under the baton of Music Director Nicola Luisotti, as well as Principal Guest Conductor Patrick Summers and guest conductors Jiří Bělohlávek and John DeMain. Tickets and more information for this not-to-be-missed event are available at the following link.