Great Easton-based Opera Minima will perform Rainforest, by Martin Read and Philip Sealey, at Little Dalby Hall, off Burrough Road near Melton this Saturday, July 11.

The opera tells the moving and haunting true story of the last days of rubber-tapper Chico Mendes and his attempt to preserve the traditional and environmentally-friendly life of the tappers and to halt the destruction of the rainforest.

The event will give visitors the chance to spend the afternoon in the hall's grounds and enjoy a picnic before ending the day with an operatic performance.

Tickets for the event cost £15 (students £5), available on 01604 230508 or by sending a stamped, addressed envelope and cheque payable to Opera Minima to Opera Minima, 26 St Peter's Court, Northampton, NN1 1SH.

Gates open at 3pm and the performance starts at 7pm.

Visitoris can take a picnic but are advised to be prepared for a typical English summer day and take umbrellas, wellies, gazebos, sun cream and winter woollies.