'Carmen' to be taken to the 3D stage

Opera-lovers will soon have the opportunity to watch
Carmen as if they were actually at the Royal Opera House in London's Covent Garden.

RealD Inc., a leading global licenser of 3D technologies, has teamed up with Japan's Toshiba Corp. to release the world's first-ever feature film of an opera to be shown in theaters in state-of-the-art digital 3D.

After cinemas, the movie will then be released on 3D Blu-ray discs that can be viewed on 3D-capable consumer electronics products produced by Toshiba, including televisions and personal computers.

Many other home electronics companies have invested heavily in 3-D technology - Sony and Panasonic to name just two - but none has ever attempted to convert a stage performance of opera into a three-dimensional film.

"We hope we will drive forward the 3-D market in both hardware and content, through the promotion of this extraordinary film," said Masaaki Osumi, president and CEO of the visual products division at Toshiba.

Georges Bizet's Carmen has been captivating audiences since its debut in 1875. Filmed in 3D during two performances at the Royal Opera House last year, Carmen in 3D features acclaimed director Francesca Zambello's updated interpretation of the opera classic - a hit with London audiences and the critics.

Directed for cinema by Julian Napier and produced by Phil Streather, the cast includes Christine Rice as Carmen, Bryan Hymel in the role of Don Jose and Aris Argiris as Escamillo. The music is conducted by Constantinos Carydis.

The film is slated for release worldwide on March 5.

JR