THE picturesque grounds of the Royal Agricultural University will once again play host to Opera Brava.

Back due to popular demand, they will perform a Candlelit Gala on Friday, July 31 and an outstanding performance of Carmen on Saturday, August 1, both starting at 7.30pm.

Returning for its eighth year to the Cotswolds, the fabulous Opera Brava cast includes young, exciting singers mixed with international artists who have performed in major opera houses, including Covent Garden and English National Opera.

The Candlelit Gala is a delight for the opera novice and the lifelong opera lover alike. A collection of some of the best loved classics, the programme will include such gems as: ‘Nessun Dorma’, the ‘Lakme’ duet, the ‘Pearl Fishers’ duet, the ‘Rigoletto Quartet’, ‘Violetta’s Aria from La Traviata’, ‘Champagne’ from Die Fledermaus, Gershwin melodies, Bernstein’s West Side story and a popular medley from the Gilbert & Sullivan operas, interspersed with informative anecdotes.

Carmen, by the French composer Georges Bizet, is widely proclaimed as ‘the most popular opera’. It’s extravagant melody and rich operatic hits, such as ‘Habanera’ and ‘The Toreador’s Song’ have captivated audiences worldwide. A tale of forbidden lust between a young soldier and a fiery gypsy girl, Opera Brava perform the dramatic story of Carmen with energy and passion, and reveal how she deals with her love for two very different men.

Opera Brava is a professional opera company specialising in touring opera. Now in its 27th year, the company presents a packed programme of classic productions at beautiful locations every year.

The Royal Agricultural University is nestled in 25 acres of beautiful grounds set around an impressive gothic-Victorian building and the 16th century Bathurst Wing.

The RAU has hosted a number of large-scale events, including the BBC’s Antiques Roadshow and Countryfile.

Tickets cost £25 per adult (£10 per child) for the Candlelit Gala on Friday evening, and £30 per adult (£15 per child) for Carmen on Saturday evening.

To book a place, please call the Opera Brava box office on 01444 443000 or visit www.operabrava.co.uk.