Jealousy, intrigue and revenge? It’s soap-opera at its best, and the good news is, the fun and thrills are heading to Worcester’s Swan Theatre.

Next week Opera Worcester take to the stage with their latest opera production: a double-bill of Cavalleria Rusticana (Rustic Chivalry) and I Pagliacci (The Clowns).

Although the operas are by different composers, these two one-act Italian operas are usually performed together and are two short stories about the inhabitants of a small Sicilian Village, in the last century.

Director Andrew Rawle said: “Both operas remind me of a British television soap opera, but the Italians did it first, and much better! The stories are intense and passionate, full of jealousy and illicit relationships, yet all set to the most beautiful music. I can promise there will be surprises to the very last second. You’d better stay to the end!”

The cast comprises of singers from all over the region and includes professional, semi- professional and accomplished amateur singers.

The main protagonists feature professional tenor Rob Forbes who last sang with Opera Worcester in 2016 in Carmen.

A spokesman said: “Rob sings ‘Turiddu’ in Cavalleria Rusticana opposite Worcester-based singer Rebecca Fearnley as Santuzza. In I Pagliacci, Mike Faulkner sings Canio opposite Opera Worcester’s principal soprano, Patricia Head, who sings the role of Nedda.

“Other supporting roles are taken by promising young baritone Laurie Standish Hayes (Tonio), John Davidson (Beppe), Phil Joseph (Silvio), newcomer Jo Williamson (Mama Lucia), Rachel Prudden (Lola), and Tim Cranmore (Alfio).”

There are just three performances and the show runs from May 2 to May 4 May at The Swan Theatre, Worcester.

Opera Worcester (formerly Great Witley Operatic Society) has its origins in the Worcestershire village of Great Witley, where it was established in 1952.

Tickets are currently available from Worcester Live on 01905 611427