From within the ancient walls of China’s Forbidden City comes the story of Calaf, a bold man who tries to melt the cold exterior of a ruthless princess. He’s not alone: Many brave men have come to win her over. But to secure the fair maiden’s hand, one must pass the test of three riddles.

Anyone who answers all three correctly earns Turandot’s heart. But one wrong answer and the penalty is death.

This dramatic and intriguing love story evolved into Turandot, a three-act opera and the final piece of work written by Giacomo Puccini after his previous classics, La Bohème and Madama Butterfly. The story features Nessun Dorma (None Shall Sleep Tonight), one of opera’s most impressive arias, performed in the final act.

Opera Columbus will present the melodies and epic theatrical setting of Turandot Feb. 20 at 8 p.m. and Feb. 22 at 2 p.m. at the Ohio Theatre. It is the second of three productions in Opera Columbus’ 2008-09 season, and is sung in Italian with English supertitles. For tickets or more information, visit www.operacolumbus.org.