THE BATTLE cry of 'Liberty or Death!' will ring vociferously from Welsh National Opera this Autumn with a trio of operas exploring both national and personal liberation.

Two new productions, Rossini’s William Tell and Moses in Egypt, lead the season and explore the liberty of nations, while a revival of Bizet’s Carmen examines personal liberty and what it means to be a free woman.

The theme of 'Liberty or Death!', which has become a slogan synonymous with struggles for independence across history, is particularly apt for the opera which will open the season: Rossini’s William Tell. An epic political and romantic work, and Rossini’s last opera, William Tell is the story of the Swiss struggle for independence against the repression of Austria; a narrative which spans ages and shares themes and ideas with many worldwide battles for national liberation. The role of William Tell will be sung by David Kempster. British tenor Barry Banks, who is well-known for his association with Rossini’s bel canto repertoire, will perform with WNO in both Rossini operas, singing the role of Arnold in William Tell.

As well as infectious and uplifting music and well-known tunes, William Tell will be punctuated with striking sets designed by Raimund Bauer, spectacular 19th century costumes designed by Marie-Jeanne Lecca, and beautiful dance sequences choreographed by Amir Hosseinpour.

A grand biblical epic composed in Naples, Moses in Egypt was one of Rossini’s early operas. This new production examines the Exodus story using powerful yet beautiful music and costumes inspired by the vibrant colours of Chagall. Hungarian bass-baritone Miklós Sebestyén will sing the role of Moses, with Barry Banks singing the role of Aronne. Mezzo Soprano and former BBC Radio 3 New Generation Artist Christine Rice will sing the role of Amaltea, returning to WNO following her performances as Rosina in The Barber of Seville in Autumn 2011, and soprano Claire Booth returns to WNO following her acclaimed performances in 2013’s Wagner Dream to sing the role of Elcia.

Completing the Autumn season will be a revival of Bizet’s Carmen, one of the best-known operas in the world, which tells the story of a free spirit who would rather die than surrender her liberty. Carmen will be conducted by James Southall. Mezzo-soprano Alessandra Volpe will sing the title role of Carmen, with Peter Wedd singing the role of Don Jose, and Kostas Smoriginas singing Escamillo. In one of his first roles as WNO Associate Artist for 2014 | 2015, Aidan Smith will sing the role of Zuniga.

The productions will be performed at The Bristol Hippodrome from Wednesday 12 until Saturday 15 November. More information on WNO’s Autumn Season is available at www.wno.org.uk/libertyordeath