Two landmark works of 20^th century dance, never before performed in New Zealand, are given their first performances by the RNZB.  These iconic works by French master-choreographer Roland Petit with music by Georges Bizet combine explosive drama and high-voltage technique.

L’Arlésienne:  It’s high summer in Provence. On his wedding day, a young man is captivated, then obsessed, by an unknown, unseen woman. Consumed by his vision, he abandons his bride, losing his reason and ultimately, his life.

Carmen:   Temptress, free spirit, victim or villain? Carmen lives and loves on her own terms. Whatever claims a man makes on her body, her heart and mind are her own.Bizet’s opera Carmen was first performed in Paris in 1875 and is one of the most popular works in the operatic canon.  Roland Petit’s ballet, now his signature work, premiered in London in 1949 with Zizi Jeanmaire in the title role and Petit himself as Don José. 

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Staged by:                                           Luigi Bonino

Music:                                                  Georges Bizet

Set Design:                                         René Allio (L’arlésienne)

Costume Design:                             Christine Laurent (L’arlésienne)

Set & Costume Design: Antoni Clavé (Carmen)

Lighting:                                              Jean-Michel Désiré

CHRISTCHURCH

Isaac Theatre Royal

Thursday 16 February 7.30pm

Friday     17 February 7.30pm 

Saturday 18 February 7.30pm

INVERCARGILL

Civic Theatre

Wednesday 22 February 7.30pm

DUNEDIN

Regent Theatre

Saturday 25 February 7.30pm

Sunday   26 February 4pm

BLENHEIM

ASB Theatre Marlborough

Friday     3 March 7.30pm

Saturday 4 March 7.30pm