FOLLOWING last year?s critically acclaimed smash hit ?The Barber of Seville?, The Garden Opera Company return to Roadford Lake on Saturday 19 for the third year running to present its new production of Bizet?s passionate love story ?Carmen?.

The lakeside venue ? between Okehampton and Launceston ? provides an idyllic setting for an evening packed with unforgettable melodies such as the Habañera, Toreador?s Song and Flower Aria.

Carmen, the wilful Gypsy girl ensnares Don José ? a soldier with a past. Torn between duty and infatuation he gives up everything to follow her and share the bandits? way of life.

Eventually Carmen tires of him and escapes his obsession into the arms of his rival the bullfighter Escamillo.

Distraught, Don José confronts Carmen with a heart-rending plea for her return.

But defiant to the end, Carmen scorns his love in one of the greatest operatic finales.

The summer the Garden Opera Company is celebrating its ninth ?al fresco? season.

Sung in English and accompanied by a chamber ensemble, the productions are performed by professional singers in an entertaining and accessible style.

Garden Opera events are the perfect introduction to opera and seasoned opera-goers also enjoy the fresh approach to well-known operas.

Seating is provided and in case of inclement weather the performance will take place in a marquee. Bring your friends and a picnic for the 45 minute interval.

Tickets £19.50 each are available from South West Lakes Trust box office 01837 871570, Truscotts in Launceston, Now and Then in Okehampton and Roadford Lake Tea-room.

Proceeds are in aid of the Hall for Roadford. Gardens open at 5.30pm with the performance commencing at 7pm.