Bizet - Carmen - Habanera

' Carmen' premiered at the Opéra-Comique of Paris on the 3rd of March , 1875 , but it's opening run was denounced by the majority of critics . It was almost withdrawn after its fourth or fifth performance , and although this was avoided , ultimately having 48 performances in its first run , it did little to bolster sagging receipts at the Opéra-Comique . Bizet died of a heart attack , aged 36 , on 3rd June , 1875 , never knowing how hugely popular 'Carmen' would become..........The famous aria , " L'amour est un oiseau rebelle " ( Love is a rebellious bird ) is here seen performed by The Royal Opera House , Covent Garden . The role of Carmen is played by the Italian mezzosoprano , Anna Caterina Antonacci .