FIRST PICTURE
In their garret high above Paris, the artist friends Rodolfo, Marcello and Colline are suffering from the winter cold. Schaunard’s appearance changes the mood: he tells them about a profitable job as a musician that supposedly provided him with money and food. The landlord Benoît breaks into the bohemians’ revelry to collect the overdue rent. Using a trick, the friends manage not only to avoid paying the rent, but to steal from Benoît. Together they set off to celebrate the special evening. Only Rodolfo stays behind at first, pretending to have an article to finish. Under the pretence of needing a light for her candle, Mimì knocks on Rodolfo’s door. The two grow closer as they discuss their respective dreams and desires.

SECOND PICTURE
Rodolfo and Mimì have followed their friends to the Latin Quarter. They are all about to enjoy their only temporary wealth to the full when Marcello’s former lover Musetta appears. She has her new patron Alcindoro in tow, who can offer her one thing above all else: luxury. In front of the amused crowd, Musetta does everything she can to attract the attention of the jealous Marcello. It’s a success: Marcello throws all intentions overboard and makes up with Musetta. Alcindoro is left horned and forced to foot the bill for their hilarity.

THIRD PICTURE
On a cold winter’s morning, Mimì comes to the outskirts of Paris in search of Marcello, where he and Musetta are now earning their living in a variety theatre. She seeks advice: her relationship with Rodolfo is suffering from his increasing jealousy. When Rodolfo appears, Mimì hides and hears his confession. She is terminally ill and he can do nothing for her in his poverty. Shaken, she recognises herself in his account. The couple decide to stay together until spring, while Marcello and Musetta engage in one of their usual scenes of jealousy.

FOURTH PICTURE
The four friends meet again in the attic. In their usual quick-witted exchange, Rodolfo and Marcello try to forget their past lovers. Then Musetta bursts in with an increasingly poorly Mimì. While everyone goes off to get help, Mimì and Rodolfo remember their love and their first encounter. When the friends return with a warming and medicine, it is too late …