OPERA North returns to the Theatre Royal, Newcastle, next week with the first productions of 2014 featuring the long-awaited and critically acclaimed new production of Puccini’s opera The Girl of the Golden West.

Dubbed “the original spaghetti western”, it tells a story of true love and second chances set in a tough mining camp during the California Gold Rush.

Puccini’s melodic gift and rich orchestral score embrace a love triangle between Dick Johnson, also known as the bandit Ramerrez, embittered Sheriff Jack Rance and Minnie, the girl of the title, who runs the Polka saloon.

The score reflects the maturity of Puccini’s characters, experienced in life yet unhardened by it. Filled with poignant moments, the opera presents a dramatic and beautiful love story, with Lancastrian soprano Alwyn Mellor as Minnie, Mexican tenor Rafael Rojas as Ramerrez, and baritone Robert Hayward as Rance.

There are performances on Wednesday and next Friday, alternating with director Tim Albery’s modern-dress production of Macbeth starring Hungarian baritone Béla Perencz in the lead role and American soprano Kelly Cae Hogan as Lady Macbeth.

The visit ends with a theatrical concert, From Paris with Love on Saturday, March 15, exploring the music of the city.

Tickets start at £15; tel 08448- 112121 or book online at theatreroyal.co.uk.