09-05-2025
The French 19th-century Beyoncé whose eroticism made Carmen a hit
When Carmen was first performed in 1875, French conservatives were scandalised at the display of female independence, passion and eroticism by the mezzo-soprano with the lead role.
Célestine Galli-Marié, who has been described as the 19th century French Beyoncé, faced smutty jokes and outright indignation for refusing to play the part of a demure woman. But she ignored the criticism to leave an indelible mark on what has become the world's most frequently performed opera.
Georges Bizet, the composer, has long been celebrated in France for his masterpiece, while Galli-Marié was relegated to the backstage of artistic history.
Now, on the 150th anniversary of the first performance, her pivotal role in shaping Carmen as a sensual, headstrong and rebellious icon is at last being acknowledged
