BRAINERD — The Lakes Area Music Festival continues its 2026 season, “Passion,” with Bizet’s “Carmen” at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 14, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 16 at the Gichi-ziibi Center for the Arts in Brainerd. ADVERTISEMENTThis production marks a milestone for both Bullock and the Festival, bringing one of today's most celebrated artists to the Brainerd lakes area for her first-ever portrayal of one of opera's most iconic heroines. Driven by some of opera’s most recognizable music, the work remains a searing portrait of passion at its most consuming. About the Lakes Area Music FestivalThe Lakes Area Music Festival is Minnesota’s summer home for world-class opera, orchestra, and chamber music. Founded in 2009, the Lakes Area Music Festival sparks connections between its central Minnesota community and the nation’s top classical performers to create transformative musical experiences.