ONE of literature’s most enduring tragedies, “Carmen,” comes to Shenzhen this April in a signature flamenco staging that tells the story entirely through dance, live music and song. Focused on intense movement, striking costumes and onstage musicians, this production renders the classic themes of love, freedom and destruction through rhythm and physical expression.

Presented as a four-act drama in 10 scenes, the show follows Mérimée’s tale without spoken text, relying on flamenco’s choreography, cante and compás to carry the narrative. The action traces Carmen and José’s passage from seduction and passion to jealousy, violence and fatal resolution. It stages all major characters from the original novel, unfolding a series of emotional confrontations that explore love, freedom, and fate. Scenes range from flirtation and confrontation to celebration and final reckoning, all driven by flamenco’s physical intensity.

Onstage four musicians accompany the dancers, joined by a featured singer whose vocals are integral to the drama. Music and movement are tightly interwoven, creating a continuous, visceral flow in which zapateado, palmas and mirada become the language of emotion. Modern lighting and set design frame a production that respects the original story while using contemporary theatrical techniques.

Ballet Flamenco de Madrid (also presented internationally as Madrid Flamenco Theater) created and performs this interpretation. Founded over 20 years ago, the company has mounted hundreds of works, toured widely and given “Carmen” more than 2,500 performances worldwide.

Time: 3 p.m., 8 p.m., April 12

Venue: Bay Opera of Shenzhen, Bao’an District (深圳滨海艺术中心)

Metro: Line 5 to Baohua Station (宝华站), Exit D(Tang Li)