By THÉRÈSE MARGOLIS    

The Slovak Dance Theatre (SDT) will perform a modern interpretation of Georges Bizet’s classic opera “Carmen” at the National Center for the Arts’ (Cenart) Teatro Raúl Flores Canelo on Saturday, Dec. 2.

The dance troupe, which was founded in 2005 by choreographer and director Ján Ďurovčík and was formerly known as the Bratislava Dance Theater, is stopping off in Mexico after a two-month whirlwind global tour to present this single performance of the modern ballet interpretation of the renowned 19th century opera based on the Prosper Mérimée’s 1845 romantic novella by the same name.

The story centers around a precocious Andalusian gypsy who seduces and a young Spanish soldier named Don José, only to betray him later when she whimsically falls into the arms of a dashing matador. The tragic love triangle culminates in a fit of jealous rage with fatal consequences for the gypsy.

In the SDT interpretation of the tale, the plot developed in a nondescript location that allows Ďurovčík and his troupe to incorporate elements of Eastern European culture and dance techniques.

“One of the reasons I chose ‘Carmen’ was because it is a very emotionally charged work,” Ďurovčík said, adding that Don José’s unrequited love is based on a universal theme that reflects the conflict of the social differences between conservative and libertine values.

Ďurovčík also said that the SDT’s performance represents a contemporary creative union of music, dance and dramatic expression.

The Slovak Dance Theatre will be held at the Teatro Raúl Flores Canelo, located at Río Churubusco 79, on the corner of Calzada de Tlálpan in Colonia Country Club, On Saturday, Dec. 2, at 6 p.m. Tickets are 100 pesos and can be purchased in advance through Ticketmaster.