The eyes of the international opera world will be focused on Sussex this week as Glyndebourne unveils its new production of Carmen.

The reason is the somewhat surprising casting of Swedish mezzo-soprano Anne Sofie von Otter in the title role.

Ms von Otter is certainly a superb singer but is tall, blonde and very cool in true Scandinavian tradition. And she is more noted for the trouser roles in operas by Mozart, Richard Strauss and Gluck.

Carmen is generally thought of as a somewhat feral and tough gypsy girl but I think Anne Sofie will do a good job.

This is Ms von Otter's debut as Carmen and her first time at the Glyndebourne Festival Opera, although she did give a recital there last autumn which was a great success.

Carmen is among every opera-lover's top five works and, even if you hate opera, you'll know all the tunes. It is Bizet's finest work.

The production is by David McVicar, who can be controversial. He did a Rigoletto for the Royal Opera House in London which opened with a nude orgy scene. But he also has a reputation for bringing out the very best in his singers.

His Carmen is the highlight of this year's Glyndebourne season and, obviously, expectations are going to be very high, which could be a bit daunting for Anne Sofie.

A former Carmen at Glyndebourne is American soprano Maria Ewing, who still lives in Sussex.

She said: "It is a very demanding role. The only line to take is your own reading of the part and that of the director.

"Audiences bring so much baggage to such a popular piece so my advice to any Carmen would be: 'Be yourself and just go out there and do it the best you can.' "

For tickets, call 01273 813813.