A SUMMER of high culture is set to return to Middlesbrough with live ballet and opera beamed onto a large screen.

The town will again play host to coverage from the world famous Royal Opera House in London.

People will be able to watch free performances of the Royal Ballet's Manon and the Royal Opera's Madam Butterfly and Cinderella.

The world-class productions will be beamed live from Covent Garden to 21 locations up and down the country.

Rob Guest, Middlesbrough Council's festivals and events officer, said: "We're really looking forward to the very best in global opera being beamed live to Middlesbrough.

"It's a great chance for people to see and hear these beautiful works in their full splendour on our Big Screen."

In 2009, the town played host to the BP Summer Big Screens Programme for the first time and it proved successful.

Tony Hall, chief executive of the Royal Opera House, said: "These screenings are a wonderful opportunity for people to get outdoors and experience world-class performances in the open air - and it's all free.

"We're providing the opportunity for people to enjoy opera and ballet in a range of fantastic venues across the UK, creating unforgettable experiences. Even if you've never watched an opera or ballet before, why not invite family and friends along and give it a chance."

Deborah Bull, creative director of the Royal Opera House, added: "These annual screens are a highlight of our performing season, they allow us to reach new audiences across the UK and to offer a unique window on our world through live presentation from behind the scenes, specially created films, cast interviews and more."

People can watchManon on Wednesday, June 1, at 7.30pm, Madam Butterfly on Monday, July 4, at 7.30pm and Cinderella onWednesday, July 13, at 7.30pm on the screen to be located in Centre Square.

The performances are being beamed to towns and cities all over the country, including Dover, Bradford, Aberdeen and Swansea.