IT'S gone on a journey from the theatre Imperial de l'Opera in 19th century Paris to 21st century Blackburn.

And, thanks to its popular appeal, it's likely to prove equally popular in both settings.

Coppelia - the ballet about a life-like clockwork doll - arrives in Blackburn next Thursday, but while the location may be a long way from its Parisian debut it should prove just as enchanting.

The ballet tells the story of the beautiful Coppelia, the creation of the eccentric toymaker Dr Coppelius and is interwoven with the love life of the flirtatious Franz and his feisty fiance Swanilda.

Coppelia catches the eye of the young Franz, and the mischievous toymaker decides to wind his mechanical daughter up to fool the smitten man into believing her to be real.

However, the joke backfires when Franz's fiance sees him flirting with Coppelia and becomes jealous.

When Swanilda discovers the truth about Coppelia and the piteous fact that old Coppelius believes Coppelia could become real if he could transfer human spirit into her, she sets out to teach both men a lesson.

The production is being presented by the Vienna Festival Ballet, who travelled to Blackburn last year with Swan Lake.

By using young dancers the company gives a vitality, energy and freshness to every performance.

Founded 24 years ago, the company continues to experience remarkable success and perform great classical ballets all over the world.

This production of the heart-warming, traditional tale offers all the essential ingredients of ballet, glamorous costumes, beautiful sets and energetic performances by the dancers, all bringing the magic of ballet to life.

Coppelia is being staged at King George's Hall, Blackburn on Thursday, November 11.

For tickets, call (01254) 582 582.