Ted The Dog Is The Latest Opera Star In Ellen Kent's LA BOHEME In Manchester

Ted will be treading the boards as Musetta's dog in the cafe scene, with brass bands and lots of street children. Ted, whose was named because he looks as cute as a teddy bear, is a 2 year-old Pomeranian dog with a lovely furry black and white coat. He loves nothing more than going for walks and playing fetch. He's a very lively and friendly dog and will no doubt love all the attention when he takes part in La Boheme, and with his temperament will not fazed by noise or bright light. His owner Lisa Smith who is a self-employed cleaner from Irlam in Manchester, is excited to be appearing with Ted as Musetta's maid.

Award-winning opera director and producer Ellen Kent said: "People say never work with children or animals but I love to do both. The first time was 20 years ago when my pet cat Holly Go-Lightly was in one of my productions and was an instant hit. Since then we've had horses, dogs, goldfish and even a golden eagle with a 6ft wingspan on stage.

"Many years ago when we last did La Boheme and asked local people to volunteer their pets it was a huge success. We even used a rescue dog once and found him dozens of new owners!

"We're a nation of animal lovers after all. I'm sure there is plenty of doggie talent out there."

Ellen Kent brings one of the most romantic operas ever written to the stage in her new tour, traditionally staged featuring beautiful sets and costumes. The set reflects the Bohemian art of the period and will include a brass band, snow effects and Musetta's dog will also make an entrance.

Puccini's masterpiece, La Boheme, is based on Henri Murger's novel Scenes de la vie de boheme. Set in Paris, it focuses on the love between seamstress Mimi and poet Rodolfo.

The powerful and emotional La Boheme is the tragic tale of hopeless romance between the doomed, consumptive Mimi and penniless writer Rodolfo.

After falling in love instantly, Rodolfo later leaves Mimi due to her flirtatious behaviour, although he wracked by guilt since their life together has probably worsened Mimi's delicate constitution. In true tragic opera fashion, the pair reunite briefly at the end before Mimi dies.

"I try to do opera that the audience can emotionally connect with, not just on a musical level but with the personal drama happening on the stage."

Ellen was inspired by reading George Orwell's book "Down and out in Paris", in her depiction of the extreme poverty in the backstreets and attics of Paris.

This classic tale of Parisian love and loss features many famous arias including 'Your Tiny Hand is Frozen', 'They Call Me Mimi' and 'Musetta's Waltz'.

Sung in Italian with English surtitles.

* Cast subject to change.