U-Carmen

It's hardly uncommon for operas to be staged in times and locales different from the original librettos, but U-Carmen—which transposes Bizet's Carmen to contemporary South Africa—is decidedly different, since the famous melodies are sung in Xhosa, a language featuring clicks and pops. In this cinematically vivid retelling, Carmen remains a hot-tempered worker in a cigarette factory (here outside Capetown) who seduces a deeply religious policeman estranged from his family and racked by guilt over the death of his brother. The erstwhile toreador of the original opera who comes between the pair is instead a visiting singer who returns to the area for a celebration in remembrance of the end of apartheid. Overall, director Mark Dornford-May's adaptation works well, and while the score has been cut, all of the highlights are included, brought to vibrant life by a solid cast. An intriguing and enjoyable take on a classic opera, this is recommended. [Note: DVD extras include a “making of” featurette, interviews with the director and cast members, and the theatrical trailer. Bottom line: a solid extras package for an interesting take on the famed opera.] (F. Swietek)