LOVE, despair, rejection, redemption... Donizetti's The Love Potion may not sound like a classic rib-tickler, but has had opera audiences in stitches since the 19th century.

Pegasus Opera's production relocates the story to a village square in 1950s colonial Jamaica, adding a new dimension of colour and vitality to the timeless tale.

The opera unfolds amid the hustle and bustle of the village market. Nemorino, a poor young farmer, has fallen helplessly in love with Adina, the rich factory owner, who rejects him.

In his attempt to gain her love he buys a magical potion. In this version, what else could the potion be but rum?

The innovative production claims to capture the essence of Caribbean life and is performed by a

talented multi-racial cast, including some veterans of Glyndebourne and the English National Opera, while the music is provided by chamber orchestra The New Professionals.

April 16, Theatre Royal Winchester. Performance: 7.30pm. Box office: 01962 840440