AN intoxicating mix of passion and romance fills the air this spring as the Lyric Hammersmith's powerful and sensual production of Camille comes to Malvern's Festival Theatre from May 6 following a London season.

Starring Daniela Nardini, this compelling new version returns to the original novel for its frank and hauntingly emotional portrayal of a woman who can afford anything - except to fall in love.

In the salons and boudoirs of Paris, anyone can have Marguerite's body for the right price, but no one can have her heart. Then, on a night when her life of expensive passion shatters with the first signs of a fatal illness, a handsome young artist catches her eye. When they meet, a mutual obsession is ignited - one which will tear both their worlds apart.

Beautifully evoking the glittering and decadent spirit of nineteenth century Paris, Camille is one of the greatest love stories ever told. This spellbinding narrative has scandalised and fascinated audiences in theatres, cinemas and opera houses for over a hundred and fifty years, inspiring such works as Verdi's La Traviata and Baz Luhrmann's hit film Moulin Rouge.

Known to television audiences as the brittle and feisty Anna in the cult series, This Life, BAFTA Award-winning actress Daniela Nardini gives a bewitching and heartbreaking performance as the tragic heroine, Maugerite Gautier. She has also played key television characters in Big Women and Undercover Heart, and has enjoyed numerous theatrical roles in plays such as Macbeth.

Camille is directed by David McVicar - one of the world's most admired young opera directors making an eagerly awaited return to the theatre after a series of acclaimed productions including Rigoletto at the Royal Opera House Covent Garden which was later televised for the BBC.

Camille runs in the Festival Theatre, Malvern from 6th - 10th May. Tickets range from £10 - £18, students £8 and are available from the Box Office on (01684) 892277 or www.malvern-theatres.co.uk.