ONE of Verdi's best-loved operas will be coming to the region this month.
Richard Bloodworth, headteacher at Durham Johnston Comprehensive School, will direct Opera North's production of A Masked Ball, at Whitley Bay Playhouse.
It will be conducted by his colleague, Fred Wharton.
A Masked Ball is a potent blend of witchcraft, adultery and personal tragedy. Based on a real murder at a society party in Sweden, Verdi had to move the action to Boston to avoid controversy.
It was an immediate triumph when it was first performed in 1859 and has remained a favourite ever since.
Northern Opera's production will be sung in English, with internationally-acclaimed tenor Benjamin Oxley as Riccardo, Count of Warwick and Governor of Boston, heading a strong local cast, including Hilary Andre, Elaine Black, Rachel Orr and Richard Spencer.
It is at Whitley Bay Playhouse from May 10 to 12. Tickets range from £6 to £11.50 with concessions and family tickets. They are available from the box office on 0191-252 3505.
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