Welsh National Opera presents a new opera from acclaimed British composer Iain Bell, adapting David Jones’s epic poem set during the Battle of the Somme.

Private John Ball and his comrades in the Royal Welsh Fusiliers are posted to the Somme. In Mametz Wood they enter a strange realm – outside of time, dreamlike but deadly.

In Parenthesis, inspired by Jones’s own experiences as an infantryman during World War I, describes the embarkation of Private John Ball and his comrades for France. Jones creates a strong sense both of place and the soldiers’ camaraderie, before ending in mystical fantasy.

In celebration of the company’s 70th anniversary, Welsh National Opera presents a new opera from the acclaimed young British composer Iain Bell.

The opera’s premiere marks the centenary of the Battle of the Somme.

Learn more about London operas within the West End.