Classic operas La Bohème and Madama Butterfly coming to Blackpool's Grand Theatre

The theatre is playing host to Puccini’s tragic romance La Bohème on Thursday February 2.

This classic tale of Parisian love and loss is directed by the renowned Ellen Kent and features many famous arias including Your Tiny Hand is Frozen, They Call Me Mimi and Muzetta’s Waltz.

The lavish production is being presented by Opera International and features the Ukrainian Opera & Ballet Theatre Kyiv with incredible international soloists, a highly praised chorus and a full orchestra.

Puccini’s La Bohème is one of the most romantic operas ever written and tells the tragic tale of the doomed, consumptive Mimi and her love for a penniless writer.

This breath-taking new production is traditionally staged and features sumptuous costumes and beautiful sets reflecting the Bohemian period, including a local brass band, dazzling snow effects and even Muzetta’s dog making an entrance!

It stars Ukrainian soprano Alyona Kistenyova, Korean soprano Elena Dee and French soprano Olga Perrier and is sung in Italian with English surtitles.

Ellen Kent will also return by overwhelming public demand with an exquisite new production of Puccini’s Madama Butterfly on Tuesday March 14 telling the heart-breaking tale of the beautiful young Japanese girl who falls in love with an American naval lieutenant – with dramatic results.

The stunning sets include a spectacular Japanese garden and fabulous costumes, which include delicate antique wedding kimonos from Japan.

Highlights include the melodic Humming Chorus, the moving aria One Fine Day and the unforgettable Love Duet.

Of this production, the The Independent critic said: “Above all it was a production which captured the raw emotion at the centre of the opera. Don’t take a handkerchief with you, take a box of them.”

Tickets are available from £33.50, with others also available at just £13 for 18 to 26 year olds as part of the national ticket scheme to encourage young adults to experience all forms of live theatre.

For information or bookings, call the Box Office on (01253) 290190 or book online at BlackpoolGrand.co.uk