EAST Lancashire's first professional opera company, Heritage Opera, is to tour its production of Puccini's La Bohème around the region's historic houses.

La Bohème will be the company's third production since it began last year.

One of the most famous operas ever written, the story is set in mid 19th century Paris and revolves around the doomed love affair between Rodolfo, a young poet, and Mimì, a young seamstress.

The opera contains many famous musical numbers including Che Gelida Manina (Your Tiny Hand is Frozen) and Soave Fanciulla (Lovely Maid in the Moonlight).

"It's one of the world's most popular operas and it has a timeless appeal," said artistic director Chris Gill.

"The loves and lives of the young artists living in a Parisian garret resonate with audiences again and again.

"The opera contains some of the most famous arias and duets ever written and is full of memorable music."

A cast of seven professional singers will be performing the opera in period costumes with a piano accompaniment.

The opera is sung in the original Italian with English surtitles.

Singing the part of Rodolfo for the first time is Richard Williams, the young tenor from Lancashire, who is already gaining an international reputation.

"We have found the perfect Rodolfo in Richard Williams," said Chris.

"He is a young tenor at only 23 from Lancashire who is already gaining worldwide recognition.

"The part of Rodolfo demands a strong but beautiful voice which very few tenors possess, but as soon as Richard opens his mouth, you know he's the real thing."

Heritage Opera was created last year by former Stonyhurst College music teacher Chris Gill and his wife, soprano opera singer Serenna Wagner.

Intimate and historic locations are key to the company.

None of the venues it uses can accommodate more than 150 audience members and it must be a beautiful and traditional location.

Heritage Opera will be ar Towneley Hall, Burnley on March 3. Performance starts at 7pm and lasts for approximately two hours and 10 minutes, including a 20-minute interval. Call 01772 451991 or book online at the website below.