Michael Fabiano returns to the stage of the Teatro Real de Madrid this December, appearing as Don José in Bizet’s Carmen. Fabiano is a frequent guest of the Teatro Real, and has previously bowed there in several operas, including Verdi’s Attila, La traviata, Giovanna d’Arco, and I due Foscari. 

Don José is a signature role for the tenor, who has previously portrayed the jealous and volatile soldier at The Metropolitan Opera—where his “ardent, burnished tenor was thrilling at full throttle” (Bachtrack)—as well as the Festival d’Aix-en-Provence, Wiener Staatsoper, La Monnaie, Santa Fe Opera, Washington National Opera, and more.

Fabiano joins an incredible cast in Damiano Michieletto’s production, including J’Nai Bridges in the title role, Luca Michelett as Escamillo, Miren Urbieta-Vega as Micaëla, David Lagares as Zuniga, Toni Marsol as Moralés, Natalia Labourdette as Frasquita, Marie-Claude Chappuis as Mercédès, Lluís Calvet as Le Dancaïre, and Mikeldi Atxalandabaso as Le Remendado. Eun Sun Kim conducts most performances, with Iñaki Encina taking the podium on January 3 and 4. 

The leading roles will alternate with another cast, which includes Aigul Akhmetshina, Charles Castronovo, Lucas Meachem, and Adriana González. Fabiano will perform on December 11, 14, 17, 20, 27, 30, and January 3.