RIYADH: The Royal Commission for Riyadh City, in collaboration with the China National Opera House, on Thursday night staged Georges Bizet’s world-renowned opera “Carmen” at the King Fahad Cultural Center in Riyadh, the very first time the masterpiece has been performed in the Kingdom.
The event is being held as part of the Saudi-China Cultural Year, commemorating the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The opening night drew more than 2,500 guests and dignitaries.
Audience members expressed their appreciation for the historic performance. Thomas Dang, who works in Riyadh, described the evening as remarkable. “It was extraordinary — a Chinese cast performing an opera by a French composer about a story set in Spain, all here in Saudi Arabia. That cultural blend was amazing. It was a wonderful night, and I truly enjoyed it,” he said.
Directed and presented by the CNOH team, the performance brought Bizet’s timeless tale of passion, jealousy, and fate to life through vibrant costumes and a distinguished international cast.
The Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC) brought the renowned Opera “Carmen” for the first time to Saudi Arabia. (SUPPLIED)
