The opera “Carmen,” about a gypsy woman who uses men, opens on Saturday at the Belk Theater. Singer Denyce Graves, however, won’t be performing in the Opera Carolina production. Graves was initially slated to play the lead role, but canceled citing illness. Graves last performed in Charlotte in the slavery-era opera “Margaret Garner.” Graves also canceled “Carmen” appearances this month in New Jersey and Baltimore.
I was looking forward to seeing Graves perform here again. Her replacement is rising star Kirstin Chavez, who filled in for Graves in the New Jersey and Baltimore performances. Chavez has portrayed Carmen in Europe, Asia and Australia as well as in the United States.
Opera Carolina presents “Carmen” Saturday and Sunday and March 18 and March 20.
