THE prestigious English Touring Opera group is to stage three productions at Malvern Theatres after the company's debut success at the venue last year.

One of the shows the group will be performing is Cosi Fan Tutte, which has been described as the "most perfect ensemble opera ever written".

Louise Russell, a spokeswoman for the theatre, said: "Mozart's genius has presented us with the gift of beautiful arias set within an immaculately constructed symmetrical whole.

"It is a comedy of sexual dynamics, which gains depth through some of Mozart's most exquisite vocal ensembles."

Explaining the plot of the opera, she continued: "Two women find their fidelity tested when a worldly-wise gentleman challenges their fiancs to a bet.

"The unexpected results challenge the very foundations of each couple's world.

"High emotions and sublime music await in Mozart's harsh and tender lesson manual for lovers."

The second production is Mary, Queen of Scots, which centres on the rivalry between Mary and Queen Elizabeth I and is a revived version of Donizetti's masterpiece.

"A highly dramatic and stirring orchestral score accompanies the vocal fireworks that spark between these two strong-willed women, culminating in the dramatic Royal confrontation that never really happened," said Ms Russell.

The third opera is The (Little) Magic Flute, created especially for eight to 13-year-olds - cut to an "accessible" length, while retaining all if the popular characters and tunes of the original by Mozart.

All the shows will be staged from Tuesday, April 25 until Saturday, April 30, with tickets costing £20 to £24, with £1 concessions for over 60s and those who are unemployed and £8 for students.

They can be bought by calling Malvern Theatres box office on 01684 892277.