The tried and tested plot from playwright Fredrick Knott is a sinister, preplanned crime thriller served by pensive performers and heightened by its suspenseful dialogue.

West Side Story composer Leonard Bernstein turns his Broadway panache to a short 50-minute gen of an opera that packs a powerful punch.

The cards are in your favour as Carmen waltzes into the Lowry theatre for Opera North’s new, sensual production. The French treasure, written by Georges Bizet in 1875 is infused with a Spanish flair and blends it extensive, lavish love story with a compelling score.

Serving up a culinary story based on the 2007 film, lyricist Sara Bareilles has revamped the indulgent romcom about pie genius Jenna as she remains trapped in a small town and a loveless marriage.