Carbon 12 - A Choral Symphony (World Premiere)

Composed by Errollyn Wallen
Text by John Binias

A celebration in music and song of South Wales' unique history, its landscape and its people. Carbon 12 - A Choral Symphony celebrates the creation of South Wales and the valleys - from their physical formation 300 millions years ago to the region's centrality in industry internationally 100 years ago - few places in the world have seen such radical transformation and turmoil. Working with the traditions of music and song, engendered by this unique landscape and history, composer Errollyn Wallen (winner of the British Composers/ BBC Radio 3 Listeners' Award 2005) brings mass choirs, brass bands, and the Chorus and Orchestra of Welsh National Opera together to create an unforgettable musical re-telling of South Wales' history.

Sung in English with surtitles in English (and Welsh in Cardiff).

Performance preceded by Alexander Nevsky Prokofiev

Prokofiev's dazzling orchestral and vocal score was originally created as the score for the wildly popular 1938 film by Eisenstein - Alexander Nevsky - which plots the true story of 13th century Russia - overrun by foreign invaders - through one character, Alexander Nevsky, Grand Prince of Novgorod.

From recovery from Mongolian invaders and songs of heroism, to marauding armies of Teutonic knights, this astounding work, brimming with proud patriotism, culminates with a climactic, triumphant battle.

Soloist: Enkelejda Shkosa

Approximate duration 2 hours

Cardiff, Wales Millennium Centre: 6 and 12 June 2008 at 7.15pm  To book tickets click here

Panel Discussion 6 June (Free to ticket holders)

On 6 June following the performance join us for a panel discussion including the composer and librettist of Carbon 12, Errollyn Wallen and John Binias, and hosted by WNO's Chairman Geraint Talfan Davies.

Birmingham Hippodrome: 19 June at 7.15pm  To book tickets click here

Rhondda Fach Leisure Centre, 27 June at 7.30pm (SOLD OUT)

For those attending the performance at Rhondda Fach please note parking is extremely limited and therefore reserved for orange badge holders. There is parking at Oakland Industrial Estate in Ferndale - WNO will supply a shuttle service to and from the centre - please allow extra time for your journey.