Migrations, a new opera commissioned by Welsh National Opera

The desire to broaden our horizons is a natural one, but for many, it is a necessity to improve on circumstances. However, the result of doing so often has unintended consequences.

Through a series of parallel storylines, Welsh National Opera’s new opera explores the highs and lows of migration: from the migration of birds to the sailing of The Mayflower over 400 years ago; from the story of an Afro-Caribbean slave in Bristol to the experience of Indian doctors working in the NHS.

The versatility of the music, composed by British composer Will Todd (Alice’s Adventures In Wonderland), is unlike anything ever performed at WNO, and adapts to the setting and mood of each narrative, written by six writers from diverse backgrounds. An expanded WNO Orchestra is joined by a cast of 100 performers, including WNO Chorus, Renewal Choir Community Chorus, Bollywood dancers and a children’s chorus.

This is an epic drama on a huge scale, an unmissable live experience.

Will Todd talks to opera journalist Gareth Jones for WNO’s series of podcasts ‘The O Word’ which explores the world of opera both on stage and off.  As opera is a medium known for reviving and reinventing established works, what are the essential components needed for a brand-new opera to be representative of today? Composer Will Todd explains his process and performs extracts from his new opera Migrations.