INTERNATIONAL theatre director Richard Gregson will be visiting Eastleigh this month with his company, Floral Opera, to lead a special production of La Traviata.

On November 17-19, 40 amateur singers will join the master at The Point Dance and Arts Centre to learn techniques of stagecraft, singing and acting in Verdi's composition. Then on the Sunday afternoon there will be a workshop performance when the budding opera singers will be joined by three professional singers.

Richard has always been keen to share his expertise as widely as possible and has linked his work in the world's top opera houses with a range of educational projects, including the unique Practical Opera weekends.

He has also developed the concept of offering amateur singers the opportunity to work with a top professional director and music director for a weekend on operas from the classic repertoire.

Richard's recent credits at the newly-opened Royal Opera House include working with two of the most exciting new international tenors: Ramon Vargas as Rodolfo in La Boheme and Marcelo Alvares as Hoffmann in Offenbach's The Tales of Hoffmann.

There are a few places remaining and no experience is needed. For further information contact 023 8068 8187.

For tickets for the performance on November 19 - including a cream tea - call The Point box office on 023 8065 2333.