Carlotta

Carlotta is the reigning prima donna of the Paris Opera. She is temperamental, talented, and furious about being upstaged by a chorus girl. She throws tantrums, makes demands, and storms off stage when she does not get her way.

Personality for Dance

Carlotta moves with exaggerated grandeur. Every entrance is an event. She sweeps into rooms, gestures to the heavens, clutches her chest in outrage. She is always performing, even when she is not on stage. Her movements are big, dramatic, and completely committed. The comedy comes from her total lack of self-awareness about how ridiculous she looks.

The Outfit

Top

An elaborate opera gown bodice in rich colors like red, gold, or deep purple. Lots of decoration, beading, or embroidery. The more over-the-top, the better. She is a diva and dresses like one.

Bottom

A full opera skirt with layers and volume. She takes up space in every sense. The skirt should swish dramatically when she turns.

Accessories

Oversized jewelry. A feathered headpiece or tiara. A fan she snaps open and shut for emphasis. Elbow-length gloves. Everything is maximum drama.

Shoes

Heeled character shoes. She needs the height and the commanding posture that heels provide.

Hair

An elaborate updo or styled wig. Big, dramatic, piled high. This is a woman who spends hours getting ready and wants you to know it.

Special Details

A prop throat spray or handkerchief she uses to fuss over her voice. Consider a small hand mirror she checks constantly. These details build the character between the big moments.

Movement Tips

Everything is bigger than necessary. A simple turn becomes a sweep. A gesture becomes a proclamation.
React to everything as if it is a personal insult. The Phantom's notes, Christine's success, any direction from the managers.
Storm off stage at least once. The exit should be as dramatic as the entrance.
When singing or performing within the show, she should look technically impressive but emotionally hollow compared to Christine.

Age Recommendations

Best for ages 12 and up. Carlotta is a fantastic role for a dancer who loves being big and bold on stage. Comic timing helps enormously. She is the character the audience loves to watch even when they are not rooting for her.