NORMA might sound more like a character in Coronation Street than a druid high priestess but she is the eponymous heroine of Bellini's classic opera.
The opera tells the story of the Norma's tragic love for a Roman officer, Pollione.
Norma's love is strong and she delays the uprising of the Gauls against the Romans, hoping for peace.
But Pollione's affections turn elsewhere, and war and tragedy loom.
Norma is brought to the stage by the ever-popular Chisinau National Opera.
This is a newly staged version of the opera featuring magnificent sets based on Stonehenge.
Norma is one of the most powerful roles in opera and it gave Maria Callas one of her most famous and demanding roles.
The score includes the renowned aria Casta Diva, prayer for peace, and the soprano duet Mira, O Norma.
The Anvil Basingstoke, October 17. Performance: 7.45pm. Tickets from £14. Box office: 01256 844244.
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