ROSSENDALE'S internationally-acclaimed opera star Sean Ruane is set to make an emotional return to the area for a special concert this Christmas.

And he admits he is probably more nervous playing at home in Bacup than in Milan -- because so many people know him personally.

Sean is due to delight his home town fans at Bacup's Royal Court Theatre on Saturday, December 18 -- his first live performance in Rossendale for more than a year.

The show "Sean Ruane: Home Again" will feature the tenor performing a mix of opera, musical theatre, Irish songs, and traditional Christmas favourites.

He will be joined on stage by Tom McConville, widely regarded as one of the finest fiddle players in the British Isles; pianist Carl Williams; and on mandolin Bacup accountant Tony Quinn.

Sean said: "I played a concert in Bacup last year and it was a very special and emotional night for me. I thoroughly enjoyed it and I was keen to do it again this year. The support I have been given by people in Rossendale has been wonderful.

"It is great to be able to perform in front of friends, family, and people who have supported me through thick and thin. I think the title of the show sums it up perfectly.

"Because so many people know me personally, I think I will be very nervous before I go on stage. I'm probably more nervous playing at home in Bacup than in Milan because I don't want to let anyone down.

"My work means that I am constantly travelling throughout Europe, and I am often asked why I haven't moved to London, but my heart is still in Rossendale. It is a wonderful place to live."

Sean, who is currently performing in France, still lives in Rossendale.

He said: "I am delighted Tom McConville is going to join us this year. He is a wonderful world-class performer, who regularly sells out venues in his own right.

"Tony Quinn is a real-life Rossendale legend. He is a long-standing friend of the family and a magnificent mandolin player.

"Carl played at the show last year, so anyone who saw that will know just how good he is."

Another Rossendale connection for the show is set designer Barbara Kershaw from Bacup.

The past year has proved to be a memorable one for one of the opera circuit's rising stars. He has made his Covent Garden debut, performed at Holland Park, as well as opening Manchester's internationally-renowned Irish Festival. Sean has also been cast as principal tenor in the French debut of the The Tempest.

Tickets for last year's show at the Royal Court sold out in just two weeks and demand is once again expected to be strong.

They are priced at £10 and are available at the box office on 01706 874080.