Croydon will be transformed into ancient Rome when Puccini’s opera Tosca comes to town.

Award-winning producer Ellen Kent brings the tale of love and treachery, murder, torture and suicide to Fairfield Halls on Saturday, April 9.

The show features lavish costumes and a glamourous set.

Kent said: “I like my operas to look like a series of incredible paintings – colourful and beautiful.

“And beauty brings emotion. I love lighting as it can really change a set and the mood.

“The most amazing feeling for me is when we create the ‘gasp factor’ and the audience have been known to clap the set before the action starts. Rather than descends into involuntary clapping. That’s what makes it all worthwhile.”

She added: “We take things to the absolute maximum to create the ultimate opera experience – my wish list is never small and I take things as far as my creative brain or purse will let me.”

Tosca is sung in Italian with English subtitles. Tickets cost from £25. Go to www.fairfield.co.uk or call 020 8688 9291.

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