Access Night at the Opera:
CARMEN

FRIDAY, JULY 31, 2026 | 7:30 pm
Music Hall • Springer auditorium

Cincinnati Opera is proud to present a performance of Carmen with a focus on accessibility, ensuring that audiences with diverse accessibility needs can have a fantastic night at the opera through the use of assistive technologies. While many of these services are available for all of our performances, on Access Night, we shine a spotlight on accessibility for all.

WHAT TO EXPECT

• Large Print Programs

• Braille Programs

• Projected English translations
  The performance will be sung in English with lyrics projected above the stage.

• Audio Description
  The performance will include live descriptions of the stage action for people who are visually impaired. Units are available at Guest Services.

• Wheelchair spaces
  All levels of Music Hall are accessible by elevator and wheelchair spaces with companion seats are on each floor. To purchase ADA spaces and companion seats, call the box office at 513-241-2742 (Monday-Friday, noon-5:00 p.m.).

• Accessible Parking and Assistance for People Using Wheelchairs
  A convenient drop-off lane and wheelchair-accessible entrance is located on the south side of Music Hall on Elm Street, near the Music Hall Box Office. Security personnel will be happy to alert an Access Ambassador, courtesy of Cincinnati Arts Association to assist patrons to their seats. Wheelchair service is available upon request.

• Bariatric seating
  A limited number of bariatric chairs are available for use. Accommodations may be made in advance by calling the box office at 513-241-2742 (Monday-Friday, noon-5:00 p.m.). To request bariatric seating at the performance, please see an usher for assistance.

• Assistive Listening System
  Assistive listening devices designed to enhance the sound of the performances may be obtained at Guest Services at Music Hall. This system uses Listen Technologies’ next generation of personal listening devices, and its integrated neck loop/lanyard improves the listening experience for T-coil users. Click here to watch a brief video demonstration.

• Website Accessibility & Language Tool
  To further enhance inclusivity, we have integrated an accessibility toolbar into our website, empowering everyone to fully engage in our captivating world of opera. Learn more>>

Access night: carmen

Friday, JULY 31, 2026 | 7:30 PM
MUSIC HALL • SPRINGER AUDITORIUM

Music by Georges Bizet
Libretto by Ludovic Halévy and Henri Meilhac

Sung in French with projected English translations

Carmen is fire.

The fiercely independent Carmen lives—and loves—on her own terms. When she sets her sights on Don José, a straitlaced soldier with a sweetheart back home, he quickly unravels, abandoning everything for her. But Carmen’s heart doesn’t stay in one place for long, and when the charismatic toreador Escamillo enters the ring, jealousy turns deadly. Set to Bizet’s iconic, rhythm-driven score, Carmen is a story of desire, freedom, and fatal choices.

Run time approximately 3 hours, 30 minutes, including 2 intermissions

Parental Guide: PG13: Some depictions of violence and adult themes may be inappropriate for children under 13; parents are encouraged to provide guidance.

HOW CAN I PREPARE?

Wondering how you can prepare for this experience? Various resources to help guide you and your family through the experience will be developed and posted in advance of the event.

• Have additional questions regarding accessibility? Need further assistance? Please contact Tracy Wilson, Director of Community Engagement & Education: twilson@cincinnatiopera.org.

• Have questions regarding tickets or seating? We're happy to assist! Call Cincinnati Opera Box Office at 513-241-2742, Monday-Friday, 12:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. to speak with a Customer Service Representative. 

DISCOVER MORE

Opera Insights
Enhance your Carmen knowledge with a pre-curtain talk one hour before the performance in Music Hall's Corbett Tower. Evans Mirageas, The Harry T. Wilks Artistic Director, or guest speakers provide overviews and insights into the opera's history, music, and production. Free to all ticket holders. No reservations are required.  

Access Night Partners

Carmen Illustration: Aimee Sposito Martini