Carmen, A Live Drive-In Opera

We’re finally making it happen! Live opera is back Sunday, December 6 as part of the Concerts in Your Car series at the Ventura Fairgrounds. Just 30 minutes south of Santa Barbara and 45 minutes north of the Los Angeles area, come meet us where “Drive-In meets Live Entertainment”!

Opera Santa Barbara is thrilled to present Carmen, A Live Drive-In Opera, a 90-minute version of Bizet’s blockbuster hit, based on an adaptation by British director Peter Brook. It’ll be an up-close and personal look at the loves and rivals of our titular heroine–all from the safe and socially distanced comfort of your car.

Each ticket is valid for one car. The number of passengers must not exceed the number of safety belts/seats in your vehicle, up to eight people. Car tickets start at $79! Buy tickets here.

Come hear mezzo-soprano Audrey Babcock (2019, The Crucible) as our Carmen in what will surely be a commanding performance in a signature role. Rounding out the quartet are Harold Meers as Don José, Alexander Elliott (2018, The Barber of Seville) as Escamillo, and returning Chrisman Studio Artist soprano Jennifer Lindsay as Micaëla. Directed by Sara E. Widzer and conducted by Kostis Protopapas featuring members of the OSB Orchestra. This will be our first live opera stage performance since March.

All CDC and State of California Guidelines will be followed. Audio will be transmitted via FM radio and video screens will show you which station to tune into for the opera. Supertitles will be projected on screen. The number of passengers in your vehicle must not exceed the number of safety belts/seats. For more FAQs, please visit the Concerts In Your Car site here.