One of Verdi’s best operas will appeal to the genre’s growing audience, says the guiding force behind a production in Kent this week.

Alexej Ignatow is the creator of the Russian State Ballet and Opera House, which brings its production of Rigoletto to the county for one night only this weekend.

Alexej founded the company more than eight years ago to stage top-class productions of ballet and opera. To retain its character and quality, it only works with Russian state theatres.

“There is a great misconception in the public that opera is only for the upper classes and you require a PhD to understand it,” says Alexej.

“However, as with any art, it just needs to be presented in the right way to the audience.”

He adds: “Rigoletto is one of Verdi’s best operas but is often unfairly forgotten by producers.

“Therefore, we have decided to include it in our repertoire.”

The story tells of court jester Rigoletto, who serves a promiscuous duke. When the duke seduces the jester’s beautiful daughter, Rigoletto’s revenge goes tragically awry.

“Every year I see a trend of more and more people coming to see opera for the first time. All of them come up to us and are really grateful for introducing opera to them,” says Alexej, who believes seeing opera at a regional theatre is the most cost-effective way to enjoy it.

“I recently tried to book tickets for the Royal Opera House,” he says.

“Before I was considering the cost of babysitters, the total expense for me and my wife was around £300. So I decided not to go.

“We, on the other hand, are able to offer the regional audience a great ballet and opera experience at a fraction of the price while sustaining top quality.

“So it’s very close to my heart to continue working with regional theatres.”

Rigoletto is at the Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells on Saturday, March 7, at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £33.

Visit www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk or call 01892 530613.