Carmen Encounter

In 1845, a novella called Carmen by Prosper Mérimée introduced the world to an unforgettable cast of characters—and inspired Georges Bizet to write one of the most. iconic. operas. ever. 

A beautiful, daring outlaw.  A handsome, troubled soldier.  The dazzling bullfighter and the hometown sweetheart who would come between them…  Set in Seville, each character in Carmen adds to the epic music and searing drama, as power and passion are turned on their heads.

Each level of the opera house lobby explores one of these timeless characters, complete with immersive activities and live entertainers.  Which character’s world will you be drawn to the most?  Become a character in the opera yourself and prepare for an avalanche of likes, because each space features multiple opportunities for selfies you’ll definitely want to share.

• Basement Level: Pastia’s Tavern

   

  Lillas Pastia’s tavern is where all of our characters come for food, drink, and illicit excitement. Disguise yourself with a mustache or beauty mark at the photo op and slip into a seat at one of the tavern’s communal tables, where you’ll catch risqué live burlesque performances, repeating every 20 minutes.

• Street Level: Escamillo’s Esplanade

   

  Escamillo is the world-famous toreador who catches Carmen’s eye, and on this level bulls and bullfighters come together to enjoy the sultry sunlight of Seville.  Be sure to get a selfie with one of the sensational street entertainers gathered to celebrate another momentous bullfight. Beat the Seville heat by sipping the refreshing “Toreador’s Triumph” Sangria (available for purchase), and pick up your own Spanish fan to add some lace to your ensemble (free while supplies last).
  
  And, rub shoulders and take selfies with members of the principal cast, chorus, orchestra, and crew who are known to hang out in this neighborhood of Seville!

• Micaëla’s Mezzanine

   

  Big-hearted Micaëla introduces some much-needed sweetness into our story when she arrives to Seville to deliver an important letter from home to Don Jose.  On her mezzanine level, she invites you to remember where you come from with custom letters from home, to recall your better angels as you receive affirmation and acceptance from none other than San Francisco’s own Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, and to express your own special wishes for brighter days ahead. 
  
  While you’re there, indulge your sweet tooth with a selection of candies and sweets and “Micaëla’s Mocha” Martini for purchase.
  
  The Box Lobby, located on this level, is open to all after the Act I performance, but is only open to Box Level ticket holders before the performance.  The VIP Lounge, also located on this level, is only open to Box Level ticket holders all night.

• Grand Tier: Carmen’s Hideaway

   

  Filled with passion, Carmen finds herself on the run, and you’re invited to come along for the ride!  Take a step onto the outdoor balcony where campfires blaze and wild creatures come to life, or sit down with one of her camp’s well-known fortune tellers to learn your fate.  And, you’ll want to let your hair down at her raucous dance floor, complete with the dangerously fabulous DJ Juanita MORE!
  
  Be sure to don your rose-colored glasses (free while supplies last) and keep up your strength with a satisfying country sandwich and “Carmen’s Kiss” Margarita for purchase on this level.

• Dress Circle: Don Jose’s Den of Desire

   

  Don José has no chill, and this is where he and his fellow soldiers come to blow off steam. Try your luck playing a variety of casino games in the Gambling Den, and experience the bonds of passion that Carmen and Don Jose share as they vie for power.  Whether you choose to get all tied up with Carol Queen, two-time SF Pride Grand Marshal and Good Vibrations’ resident sexologist, or visit Paramour Parlor to try on fine goods from Dark Garden Corsetry, there are plenty of ropes and roses to tempt you.
  
  If you need a little liquid courage, head to the bar for “Don José’s Jealousy” Negroni for purchase. Hearty snacks are also nearby.

• Food and Beverage

   

  Don’t miss delicious drinks and bites crafted by Global Gourmet Catering, available for purchase on every level:

  Basement

  • North side: Patatas Bravas pre-order pick-up or purchase while supplies last
  • Main Bar: All the evening’s specialty cocktails (“Toreador’s Triumph” Sangria, “Carmen’s Kiss” Margarita, “Don Jose’s Jealousy” Negroni, and “Michaela’s Mocha” Martini) plus full bar
  • Concession stand (south side): Beer, wine, soda, sandwiches, snacks, plus “Toreador’s Triumph” Sangria

  Main Lobby                      

  • Two concession stands: Beer, wine, soda, sandwiches, snacks plus “Toreador’s Triumph” Sangria

  Mezzanine/Box Lobby:

  • North Box Lobby: Dessert shop
  • North Box Bar: “Micaela’s Mocha” Martini plus full bar
  • VIP Lounge (Box ticket holders only): VIP cheese tray and sparkling wine pick-up, plus cash bar with “Micaela’s Mocha” Martini and “Don Jose’s Jealousy” Negroni 

  Grand Tier:

  • North Side: “Carmen’s Kiss” Margarita plus full bar
  • South Side: Sandwich cart with “Don Jose’s Jealousy” Negroni 

  Dress Circle:

  • Main Bar: “Don Jose’s Jealousy” Negroni plus full bar
  • Concessions stand (south side): Beer, wine, soda, sandwiches, snacks plus “Don Jose’s Jealousy” Negroni 

  Skip the line and order your post-performance refreshments before the show! Just visit the bar before the act and order your drink from the bartender.  Your drink will be waiting for you at the bar at the end of the act. 

• Further Information

   

  Walking Groups to BART, Muni, and Garages

  • After your unforgettable evening at the Opera House, we want to help you get home safely.  Civic Center Ambassadors will lead walking groups to the parking and public transportation locations below.
  • Walking groups will leave at 4 designated times: 10pm, 10:30pm, 11pm, and 11:30pm.
  • To Civic Center BART/Muni: Meet by the Opera House steps on the south side of Van Ness Ave.
  • To Civic Center & UC Law SF (Hastings) Garages: Meet by the Opera House steps on the north side of Van Ness Ave.

  Event Information

  • Safety is our first priority. Please reach out to ushers or staff with any questions or concerns.
  • A First Aid station is located in the basement. 
  • Bathrooms are located on each level, with the exception of the Main Lobby (street level). 
  • Coat/bag check is available on the north side of the Main Lobby. 
  • Please feel free to take as many photos as you like of the lobby spaces and share them with your friends on social media, tagging us at @sfopera. However, please ask Opera personnel before taking their picture and refrain from recording any portion of the performance in the auditorium. 
  • Please note that photography and video may be taken at this event for archival and promotional purposes, and your attendance indicates your consent to be photographed/filmed. 

  A special thank you to our sponsors and partners:

  • Carmen Encounter is made possible, in part, by the Creative Edge Fund with major support from founding funders Carol & Dixon Doll; Peter Fenton & Kate Greer; and Bob Ellis.
  • Carmen is made possible, in part, by Jerome & Thao Dodson; San Francisco Opera Guild; Edmund W. & Jeannik Méquet Littlefield Fund; Glen H. Reid; Marieke & Jeff Rothschild; and Jan Shrem & Maria Manetti Shrem.
  • Décor design by Dianna Cavagnaro and florals by Zaddy Blooms
  • Party entertainment provided Red Hots Burlesque and Present Progressive Events
  • San Francisco Opera proudly extends special thanks to our partners The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Dark Garden Corsetry, and Good Vibrations.