Story

Scene 1: Morning

In the town square, girls from the cigar factory mingle with soldiers of the garrison. The women persuade a passing gypsy to read the cards for them, but the first card she turns up is Death. Just as she does this, the carefree young Don Jos" appears. When Carmen joins the girls from the factory, Jos" doesn't take much notice and this infuriates her. To get his attention she moves with seductive languor and offers him a flower. Jos" is intrigued but must report for duty with the garrison.

Scarcely has he gone than a fight breaks out among the factory girls. Carmen is accused of stealing and the women gang up on her. Two of her friends try to defend her, but Carmen gets so angry that in a flash of uncontrollable temper, she draws a knife. Mayhem ensues and the garrison arrives. Don Jos" has to arrest Carmen. On the way to jail, Carmen pursues her flirtation with Jos", trying everything to persuade him to release her. She distracts him, sets herself free, and makes a hasty escape. Jos" is then arrested and thrown into jail.

Scene 2: Evening

Outside a caf", the women stroll, serene in the cool air. The Toreador Escamillo arrives at the caf", the star of tomorrow's bullfight. He is admired and adored by all. Carmen is instantly attracted to his charisma, but Escamillo is much more focused on the glories and dangers of the bullring tomorrow. Jos" bursts into the caf". He has been released from jail, but is distraught. Carmen, touched by his predicament and by his obvious devotion, shows him affection " but such happiness is not to last. The gypsy shows Carmen the card she has drawn for Jos". However, Carmen realizes that it is actually for her. Scene 3: The Next Day

It is the day of the bullfight. The festive crowd gathers to acclaim and cheer Escamillo, who arrives with Carmen on his arm. Elated and excited, everyone enters the bullring, but at the last moment, Carmen sees Jos? lurking in the shadows. She knows she must accept what has to happen and calmly, she turns towards him. Enraged with jealousy, he stabs her in the heart with a dagger, and she dies in his arms.

((As always, all are welcome to post to this thread, but please respect the setting. Have fun and thanks for reading!))