Two world-class productions arrive at EDEN CINEMAS this autumn, bringing the emotional intensity of The Royal Ballet’s Manon and the fiery passion of The Royal Opera’s Carmen to the big screen
Experience the magic of world-class performances on the big screen as Eden Cinemas brings two spectacular productions from The Royal Ballet and The Royal Opera to audiences this autumn. From the tragic romance and emotional intensity of Manon to the fiery passion and unforgettable music of Carmen, these acclaimed productions offer an exceptional cinematic experience for lovers of ballet, opera and the performing arts. Broadcast live from the stage and complemented by encore screenings, these performances provide the opportunity to enjoy some of the world’s finest productions without leaving Malta.
Manon
Set against the decadent backdrop of 18th-century Paris, Manon tells the story of a young woman torn between love and luxury. In a society where wealth dictates power and morality often takes a back seat to ambition, Manon finds herself caught between two worlds. When she falls in love with the devoted student Des Grieux, she is offered the chance of a life built on genuine affection and honesty. However, the glittering promises of wealth and status prove difficult to resist, forcing her to make impossible choices that ultimately lead to heartbreak.
Kenneth MacMillan’s celebrated 1974 adaptation of Abbé Prévost’s classic novel remains one of The Royal Ballet’s defining works. Renowned for its emotional depth and psychological complexity, the ballet explores themes of desire, survival, greed and sacrifice through powerful choreography that continues to captivate audiences more than five decades after its premiere.
MacMillan’s remarkable ability to portray human emotion through movement is complemented by Jules Massenet’s richly expressive score, which perfectly captures the passion and tragedy unfolding on stage. Nicholas Georgiadis’s lavish set and costume designs immerse audiences in the glamour and moral decay of pre-revolutionary Paris, creating a visually stunning production that is as beautiful as it is heartbreaking.
The combination of exceptional choreography, evocative music and compelling storytelling makes Manon one of the most beloved narrative ballets in the classical repertoire. It is an unforgettable experience that demonstrates the emotional power of dance without the need for words.
Manon will be screened live at Eden Cinemas on October 27, with an encore screening on November 1.
Carmen
Passion, jealousy, freedom and obsession take centre stage in Bizet’s timeless opera Carmen. Set beneath the blazing Spanish sun, the story follows the fiercely independent Carmen, whose refusal to conform captivates everyone around her. Among those unable to resist her charm is the soldier Don José, whose growing obsession soon spirals into a dangerous descent that changes both of their lives forever.
Damiano Michieletto’s acclaimed production offers a bold and contemporary interpretation of this operatic masterpiece while remaining faithful to the emotional intensity that has made Carmen one of the world’s most frequently performed operas. His striking staging shines a light on themes that remain just as relevant today as when the opera first premiered, including desire, violence, freedom and the consequences of possessive love.
Leading the cast is Ginger Costa-Jackson in the iconic title role, bringing charisma, confidence and emotional depth to one of opera’s most celebrated heroines. Alongside her, Russell Thomas delivers a compelling performance as Don José, charting the character’s tragic transformation from devoted soldier to desperate lover. Returning after his successful Royal Opera debut in 2023, conductor Sesto Quatrini leads Bizet’s exhilarating score, bringing to life its unforgettable melodies, dramatic orchestration and vibrant Spanish rhythms.
From the instantly recognisable ‘Habanera’ to its thrilling finale, Carmen remains one of the greatest operatic experiences ever written. Its combination of memorable music, compelling characters and gripping drama has captivated audiences for generations and continues to inspire productions around the world.
Carmen will be screened live at Eden Cinemas on November 10, followed by an encore screening on November 15.
