While they have little trouble falling in love at first sight, opera protagonists seem to have the worst luck when it comes to holding onto that special someone. There's always something, whether it's a disapproving father figure, competitive suitors or an untimely terminal illness. Guys like Verdi and Wagner made their careers on the storylines of doomed love. In the company of such tragic composers is Giacomo Puccini, if nothing else for perhaps his most recognized work, “La BohA”me.” Following the courtship of bohemian writer Rodolfo and his beautiful neighbor Mimi, the dramatic musical work is one of the most frequently performed operas both internationally and in the United States. Continuing its season, the Virginia Opera is scheduled to perform this Paris-set Italian work at the Carpenter Theatre twice: Friday, Oct. 23, at 8 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 25, at 2:30 p.m. $30-$100. 866-673-7282.