Florida Grand Opera’s Carmen to Make History with the Costa-Jackson Sisters

In April 2025, Florida Grand Opera (FGO) is set to make operatic history with a groundbreaking production of Carmen that will see the internationally acclaimed Costa-Jackson Sisters—Ginger, Marina, and Miriam—share the stage in a fully staged opera for the first time. This bold and emotionally charged production is directed by FGO General Director and CEO Maria Todaro and promises to be a milestone not only for FGO but for the broader opera world.

A New Vision of Carmen by Maria Todaro

Celebrating the 150th anniversary of Georges Bizet’s Carmen, Maria Todaro brings a transformative directorial vision rooted in her own deep personal connection to the role—her mother famously portrayed Carmen at just 21. Without changing a word of the original text, Todaro reimagines Carmen’s story through the lens of the Spanish Civil War, casting her not just as a free spirit, but as a symbol of collective resistance.

According to Todaro, Carmen’s fight is not just for individual liberation, but for a deeper, national soul-searching. The female characters become warriors in a larger struggle, fighting to reclaim their identities, their rights, and their freedom. Todaro’s interpretation intensifies the emotional stakes, making Carmen more relevant than ever for modern audiences.

The First Full-Scale Operatic Performance by the Costa-Jackson Sisters

What sets this production apart is the historic debut of the Costa-Jackson Sisters performing together in a fully staged opera. Ginger Costa-Jackson, renowned for her fiery portrayals of Carmen at major houses such as The Metropolitan Opera and Staatsoper Hamburg, returns to her signature role. She will be joined by her sisters Marina and Miriam Costa-Jackson, who alternate in the role of Micaëla across performances.

Marina has earned international acclaim with upcoming debuts at the Royal Opera House Covent Garden and Teatro Petruzzelli, while Miriam has captivated audiences with Seattle Opera and various European concert tours. The trio, often praised for their shared chemistry in concert performances, will now bring their dynamic energy to a fully realized dramatic production—offering audiences a rare chance to witness familial harmony through a powerful operatic lens.

Performance Dates and Locations

Opera lovers across South Florida can experience this unique production at two iconic venues:

Miami – Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts (Ziff Ballet Opera House):

• April 12, 2025 at 7:00 PM
• April 13, 2025 at 3:00 PM (Pre-Opera Talk begins at 2:00 PM)
• April 15, 2025 at 8:00 PM

Fort Lauderdale – Broward Center for the Performing Arts (Au-Rene Theater):

• April 24, 2025 at 7:30 PM
• April 26, 2025 at 7:30 PM

Audiences will experience not only the brilliance of the Costa-Jackson Sisters, but a world-class supporting cast including Rafael Davila as Don José and Alexander Birch Elliott as Escamillo. Marina Costa-Jackson will perform Micaëla on April 12, 15, and 26, while Miriam Costa-Jackson sings the role on April 13 and 24.

Creative Team and Cast Excellence

Led by conductor Ramón Tebar, the production brings together an exceptional creative team. Scenic design is by Allen Charles Klein, with costumes by Maria Todaro and Camilla Heath. Lighting is designed by Robert Wiesel, and choreography is led by Rosa Mercedes. The production features contributions from FGO Studio Artists and emerging talents as well, ensuring a dynamic blend of seasoned artistry and fresh energy.

Florida Grand Opera’s Commitment to Innovation

Founded in 1941, Florida Grand Opera remains one of the country’s most respected and forward-thinking opera companies. Under Maria Todaro’s leadership, FGO has continued to push the boundaries of storytelling through music, creating productions that reflect the cultural diversity and evolving narratives of our times.

This staging of Carmen encapsulates FGO’s vision—one that honors classical music traditions while speaking directly to modern sensibilities. With themes of rebellion, identity, and female empowerment at its core, this Carmen resonates not just as entertainment, but as a cultural statement.

A Must-See Opera Event in 2025

For fans of opera, history, and transformative storytelling, FGO’s Carmen is an unmissable experience. The production offers a rare combination of musical excellence, theatrical depth, and groundbreaking collaboration from one of opera’s most celebrated sibling trios. From its fiery score to its emotionally charged narrative, this performance promises to ignite the stage and linger in the hearts of its audience.

Tickets are now available online at fgo.org/season/carmen or by calling (800) 741-1010.