The Met presents a vital new production of one of opera's most enduringly powerful works. Acclaimed English director Carrie Cracknell makes her Met debut, reinvigorating the classic story with a staging that moves the action to the modern day and finds at the heart of the drama issues that could not be more relevant today: gendered violence, abusive labor structures, and the desire to break through societal boundaries. Dazzling young mezzo-soprano Aigul Akhmetshina leads a powerhouse quartet of stars in the complex and volatile title role, alongside tenor Piotr Beczala as Carmen's troubled lover Don Jose, soprano Angel Blue as the loyal Micaela, and bass-baritone Kyle Ketelsen as the swaggering Escamillo. Daniele Rustioni conducts Bizet's heart-pounding score. Later in the season, another cast of world-class singers takes over, with mezzo-soprano Clementine Margaine reprising her captivating portrayal of the title role, tenor Michael Fabiano as Don Jose, soprano Ailyn Perez as Micaela, bass-baritone Ryan Speedo Green as Escamillo, and Diego Matheuz making his company debut on the podium.

The Metropolitan Opera, PBS and THIRTEEN New York join forces for the 17th season of opera telecasts.