The opera newbie is back again! And I'm here to tell you a little bit about Verdi's Aida. Say it with me, AH-EE-DUH!
Directed by David Gately and starring Mlada Khudoley (as Aida), and Arnold Rawls (as Radames), this production runs from April 21st - May 3rd at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre.
Aida has a bit of a Romeo and Juliet feel to it, in the sense that it's a tragic tale about two lovers who are being torn apart by their opposing allegiances. And (SPOILER ALERT) in the end they die in each other's arms. This story will take you on a roller coaster ride of emotion. There are some beautifully sweet highs, but mostly, there is sadness, grief, rage, and jealousy. Don't get too bummed though, because love is the strongest emotion of all. And that's what this story is really all about!
All photos: Tim Matheson
OK, so love story equals good, right? Hopefully most of us can agree on that. Now, just a couple other little things I would like to mention that I feel make this production so great. One; the sets! I kicked it with the drama kids in high school, but I was definitely not an actor. I did lighting, props, and helped with sets. I can definitely appreciate good set design, and I loved the sets in Aida. I especially loved the final scene. The set wasn't as grandiose as some of the others, but I felt it made a spectacular impact. Curious? You'll just have to see for yourself! And thing two; dancing! This was an opera, yes. But there was also an element of dance. Extra points for dancing. And lastly, fire! Real fire on stage. That's definitely cool!
Well, I hope I've sparked some interest (pun intended). Go check out Aida and be happy, sad, and most of all...feel the love!
