Penniless writer Robin struggles to monetise his writing but a hookup with a Liberty perfume salesman - known to his friends as Mimi - leads to unexpected blossoming of romantic passion.

Meanwhile Robin's flatmate, Marcus pursues an on/off relationship with sometime model Marissa who is torn between the idealism of loving an artist and the financial security of a banker. 

As a year passes from one Christmas to the next, the four friends struggle to reconcile love with artistic aspiration and the need to pay the bills.

Puccini's story has been constantly reinvented since its premiere in 1896 most notably with the Broadway musical Rent. A previous production for Opera Up Close enjoyed a successful run at the King’s Head Theatre, and received an Olivier award. Subsequently in 2018 another incarnation of La Boheme from the King’s Head Theatre West End season was nominated for Best New Opera at the Oliviers.