Spotlight On Local Talent

The upcoming Bizet's Carmen by the Singapore Lyric Opera (SLO) shines the spotlight on the largely Singaporean cast. Out of the 11 cast members, six are Singaporeans including tenor Jonathan Charles Tay who is making his debut as Don Jose opposite SLO regular Matin Ng as Escamillo.

Another Singaporean, Janani Sridhar, returns from the US after years abroad to join the cast as Micaela, the country girl who's in love with Don José. The title role will be played by rising Taiwanese star Jo- Pei Weng who was featured in one of the lead roles in Verdi's Aida by SLO last year. SLO's artistic director Nancy Yuen says, "with notable talents in the leading roles, the audience will be able to witness their passion, dedication and hard work on stage."

Bizet's Carmen performs on Aug 30 and 31, at 8pm, and on Sep 1, at 5pm at Esplanade Theatre. Tickets from S$35, from SISTIC.