'Sex, power and death' '“ in Southwick

Set in 19th-century Rome, the tale of beautiful opera singer Floria Tosca (Karen Orchin) will be played out on the stage of the Barn Theatre, Southwick Community Centre, Southwick Street.

Tosca is in love with a young painter Mario Cavaradossi (Tony Adams). The two have attracted the attention of the chief of police, Baron Scarpia (Darren Jones), who lusts after Tosca and is furiously jealous of the painter.

He knows Cavaradossi is radical and is waiting for him to step out of line.

This happens when Cesare Angelotti (Christopher Parke), a convicted republican, breaks out of prison and persuades Cavaradossi to hide him.

Also featuring in the production are Frank Jordan, as Spoletta, and William Revels, as the Sacristan.

First performed in Rome, in 1900, Tosca was Puccini's fifth opera and is based on a play by French dramatist Sardou.

It was written for the actress Sarah Bernhardt, who was famous for playing fierce, emotional women. Later, the role was adopted by Maria Callas and took on legendary status.

Show conductor and director Simon Gray said: "Puccini knew the value of powerful emotion, and mines it through three of the most vivid characters in opera '“ the diva, the artist, the oppressor.

"Tosca examines the themes of sex, power and death and does so with a taut, exquisitely put-together narrative, accompanied by thrilling music."

Tosca will be performed at the Barn Theatre on Wednesday, March 28, Friday, March 30, and Saturday, March 31, starting at 7.30pm.

Tickets cost 16 and are available from the box office, on 01273 597094.