OPERA buffs are in for a treat when the Russian State Ballet and Opera House bring Rigoletto to the Princes Theatre stage in Clacton.

Often seen as Verdi’s greatest masterpiece, Rigoletto was Pavarotti’s favourite opera.

The tragic story revolves around hunchbacked court jester Rigoletto, his beautiful daughter Gilda and his master, the Duke of Mantua.

It is a tragic tale of misunderstanding, revenge and ultimately sacrifice, carried along by a succession of stunning tunes, including the Duke’s famous cynical aria La donna è mobile.

Italian composer Verdi based the opera on a play by Victor Hugo.

The role of Rigoletto is considered one of the most difficult in the baritone repertoire.

The Russian State Ballet and Opera House delighted Clacton music lovers last year with Bizet’s majestic masterpiece Carmen.

The impressive cast are backed by a live orchestra of more than 30 musicians.

They received a standing ovation on the first night of the tour earlier this month.

Producer Alexej Ignatow said: “Nothing can replace the pleasure of attending a live performance, which is why we are dedicated to presenting full and positive new productions in regional theatres."

The show is sung in Italian with English surtitles. Rigoletto is at the Princes on March 1 at 7.30pm.

Tickets are £29.50 (£27.50 concessions) on 01255 686633.