It is one of the most famous opera houses in the world, attracting some of the most lavish productions and best performers.

It is one of the most famous opera houses in the world, attracting some of the most lavish productions and best performers.

And now audiences in Norwich can enjoy live performances at New York's Metropolitan Opera House without ever leaving the city.

The newly reopened Cinema City is screening the first of a series of eight live by satellite broadcasts on Saturday with a transmission of Gounod's Roméo et Juliette with HD (high definition) quality pictures and stereo sound.

This ultra-sensual interpretation of Shakespeare is said to be an ideal vehicle for the unique and incandescent appeal of the charismatic Anna Netrebko as Juliet.

It is conducted by Plácido Domingo and also features Essex-born bass singer Robert Lloyd.

Forthcoming Live From The Met presentations at Cinema City include a New Year's Day special with Engelbert Humperdinck's Hansel and Gretel, an English-language production of the beloved story by the Brothers Grimm, at 6pm; a dark yet exhilarating version of Verdi's Macbeth on January 12 at 6.30pm; Puccini's Manon Lescaut on February 16, 6pm; and the sweeping orchestral beauty of Peter Grimes from East Anglia's Benjamin Britten on March 15 at 5.30pm.

The season continues to the end of April.

Tickets can be booked by calling 0871 704 2053. The prices are £25 (£20 concessions) or members £17.50. Half-season tickets for any four operas are £90 (£70 concs).