VERDI'S opera masterpiece, Rigoletto, is all set to raise the roof at Malvern Theatres when a popular opera company pays a four-day visit.

The Compagnia d'Opera Italiana di Milano has visited Malvern three times before and is bringing the original Italian version of the opera to The Forum Theatre as part of its annual tour programme of 100 performances in 12 European countries.

The company has promoted the repertory of Italian belcanto for more than 50 years and has always favoured singers of all nationalities. This means young singers from all over the world have been given the chance to show what they can do before going on to become big names in the opera scene.

Rigoletto, which has been a hit since it was first performed in 1850, is based on Victor Hugo's play Le Roi S'Amuse.

Rigoletto is a hunch-backed court jester who has a secret - a beautiful daughter, Gilda, who is kept hidden and protected from the malicious court of the Duke of Mantua.

Unfortunately, though, she stumbles into the clutches of the lascivious duke and is taken in by his charms, betrayed by her own innocence.

Dramatic and familiar music accompany her tragic tale, including the famous aria La Donna e Mobile and Gilda's great love song Caro Nome.

The performance runs from October 28 to 31. Contact the box office for ticket details on 01684 892277.