If you prefer passionate narratives to summer blockbusters, then the annual Ash Lawn Opera Festival is probably already on your radar. The arts community stronghold is kicking off another season with Giacomo Puccini’s beloved masterpiece La Bohème. Set in 19th-century Paris, the foundation for the popular Broadway musical Rent follows a group of struggling artists from the highs of newfound love to the lows of poverty and sickness. Soak up the soaring Italian score with a cast chock-full of Metropolitan Opera veterans and local kids.
Friday 7/12 $11-65, 7:30pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E Main St., Downtown Mall. 979-1333.