QUANTOCK'S "jewel in the crown", Crowcombe Court, will be continuing with its outstanding reputation for its extensive musical programme.

It includes recitals from Oliver Davies and concerts and masterclasses led by Tamsin Waley-Cohen.

And in 2013 Crowcombe Court brought the Midsummer Garden Opera to West Somerset.

Opera Brava is a long established company formed as a charity to bring opera out to a wider audience and develop new talent.

As well as providing an opportunity for young singers to take steps up the ladder, the company also enter schools and perform around the country.

Many of these singers return during careers with companies such as the English National Opera and Glyndebourne to sing with Opera Brava during their programme of performances.

Opera Brava returns to Crowcombe Court on June 17 and 18 to perform Carmen (17) and The Marriage of Figaro (18).

Crowcombe Court and the Combe in which it sits, form a perfect backdrop for outdoor performances.

The production itself is mounted on a large covered stage with lighting gantries and full sound systems.

Opera goers are invited to arrive from 6pm to picnic in the grounds before moving up to the croquet lawn to enjoy the fantastic music and singing which will start at 7.30pm.

Tickets are £30 for adults and £15 for children (aged five -16).

The performances are not suitable for children under the age of five.

Disabled access is good in the grounds and lawns.

Tickets are available online: Carmen: http://www.eventbrite.com/e/crowcombe-court-midsummer-garden-opera-carmen-tickets-25715804664 The Marriage Of Figaro: http://www.eventbrite.com/e/crowcombe-court-midsummer-garden-opera-the-marriage-of-figaro-tickets-25716105564 Alternatively they can be booked through the Crowcombe Court box office: 01984 618752 or admin@crowcombecourt.co.uk