Hi: I went to see the dress rehearsal of Carmen today at the RAH. Its a mixed bag of talent and experiences! Unfortunately the great Louise Poole was indisposed so another Carmen took over the role. (Many apologies, I didn't catch her name when it was announced - there were no flyers available!) She had a beautiful voice and I could hear every word. Given the short notice of performing the role without rehearsal before, it was notable.
The chorus sounded wonderful - a great rich sound and the children's chorus were bubbly, lively and cute - well done!
THe male principals totally outshone the females who were disappointing. John Hudson sang with true ringing tone. I felt quite moved by his final scene. Bravo! Also David Kempster sang with a virile tone - providing a great contrast to Jose. THe smaller roles were all well performed too.
I'm sorry to say the other three female roles were very disappointing: a Frasquita that consistently missed her high notes by at least a semi quaver; a Mercades with a woolly tone and inaudible words and a Michaela who acted the role satisfactorily, but had a wide ranging vibrato obscuring any vocal line. Dramatically the gypsy duo had no impact on proceedings - a real disappointment and if I'd paid £57 for a ticket I would have been furious. These ladies need to go back to the drawing board and have some serious vocal coaching... (and there needs to be recasting).
The production was in the round with clever use of levels and 'audience' participation. I would have liked more exploration of the characters by David Freeman, but in fairness, having an understudy in the main role created a real challenge to everyone.

Might it have been Carolyn Dobbin? According to her website she's covering Carmen at the RAH http://www.carolyndobbin.com/Carolyn_upcoming.htm
I heard her in a concert a few months ago, including one of the Carmen arias, and thought she had a lovely voice & good stage presence.