CAR MAN by Matthew Bourne.Georges Bizet's Carmen reignited.Lyric Theatre,The Lowry.Media CitySalford. 
Tues 23rd June - Sat 27th June 2026.

This was my first time seeing a Matthew Bourne ballet production, and I didn’t quite know what to expect from 'Car Man' I’d seen other versions by different directors and choreographers, so I was curious to see how this one would compare.
This was a reimagined version of the 1875 opera 'Carman'  by French composer Georges Bizet.A story of betrayal, murder, revenge and in the end, loyalty.
The foyer was humming, a gentle pulse was in the air.A full house of excitement — quiet, close, like a secret everyone already knew. Except me!
What was I in for??
The stage design was impressive I must say.It genuinely looked like a 1950s working garage complete with a shower room above an office. The welding were sparks flying, cars onstage, and cast members already “at work” as the audience entered the theatre and took their seats. You don’t get that very often, and it was a great touch.A scene was set- an old diner, a garage, all in a tiny town called Harmony, USA, with a population of 372.What struck me most was the realism of the two American cars onstage. For the most part, they were so cleverly positioned that you barely noticed they were only the front ends — complete with working headlights and dashing, greasy, dashing, mechanics! Did I say dashing twice? Thrice? Ohhh my!
The Stage design crew really excelled themselves, they built a Jailhouse!! Imagine the Hollywood movie, Jailhouse Rock, and the musical, Chicago, just without the singing of course, and you'll be close. ,The garage, yes, the garage, transformed seamlessly into these different scenes on stage before our very eyes. Which wasn't as big as some stages I could mention. Then, out of the darkness, a nightclub appeared. How did they do that? Incredible.
Opening night was a complete success.Great choreography, great direction.
I won’t mention the naked men and the onstage antics. I’ll leave that for your own viewing pleasure.A raucous standing ovation.So very well deserved.I think you'll definitely enjoy this one. Wink wink! 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐