THE RUSSIAN State Opera returns to Yorkshire with new productions of Puccini’s masterpieces Madama Butterfly and Tosca.

The operas will be sung in Italian with English surtitles and will be accompanied by a live orchestra of more 30 musicians.

A spokesman for the Russian State Opera said no opera could match the tragedy and sorrow of Madama Butterfly.

He said: “Set in Japan at the turn of the century, Madama Butterfly is among the most colourful and exotic of all operas, and from its theme of noble self-sacrifice spring melodies that grip your heart.

“It tells the story of a doomed love affair between an American naval officer and his young Japanese bride, whose self-sacrifice and defiance of her family leads to heartbreak and tragedy.”

Tosca, meanwhile, is described as an emotionally engaging melodrama where love and politics collide, and murder takes place at the highest level.

The spokesman added: “Originally set in Rome in 1800s, it tells the story of two idealistic lovers, Tosca and Cavaradossi.

“Their trust is set to be tested by Scarpia, the ruthless police officer who has no boundaries.”

Harrogate Royal Hall will host Madama Butterfly on August 30 and Tosca on August 31. Call 01423 502116 to book tickets.

Tosca will be at the Barbican in York on October 6 (call 0844 854 2757) and Madama Butterfly will be at the Victoria Theatre in Halifax on October 8 (call 01422 351158).