To able to be so up close and personal, to see every nuance of the performances is truly a treat. Garanca was the best Carmen I have ever seen. Even my dad, who is not a big opera buff, loved every minute of it.
Only downside - the theater were were in had some audio problems which were a big disappointment to me. I noticed it much more than either of parents did though. If you're planning on attending this at the Otay Ranch in Chula Vista, call ahead to make sure they've fixed their right audio channels.