A spectacular singing cast featuring an African American soprano and tenor in the lead roles sparked a sensational new-to-Lyric Opera production of Verdi’s Aida. Set in ancient Egypt, the opera’s story line centers around the conflict between two warring neighboring nations in the Middle East (sound familiar?) and the added conflict created by ta love triangle between two star crossed lovers, Aida (Michelle Bradley) the Ethiopian slave girl and Radames (Russell Thomas), the Egyptian King’s chief warrior and the king’s vindictive daughter, Princess Amneris (Jamie Barton) who are thrust into the center of the conflict.
With eye-popping sets created by L.A. designer RETNA (aka Marquis Lewis in his Lyric debut, under the direction of Francesca Zambella and the nimble baton of Lyric Music Director, Enrique Mazzola, a Verdi specialist, this was a stunning finale to the Lyric’s 2023-24 season.
Maestro Mazzola set the pace from the opening strains of Verdi’s lovely overture, guiding the mounting tension on stage with a firm hand. At times singing right along with the principals and chorus, he allowed the opera to unfold in holistic fashion.
Set Designer Michael Yeargan and Costume Designer Anita Yavich used RETNA’s hieroglyphic designs and explosive color palette to maximum advantage. Spectacular dance ensembles choreographed by Jessica Lang and associate Claudia McDonald in their Lyric debut along with the work of veteran Ballet Mistress August Tye were an integral element of this stunning production.
As with all things Verdi, the centerpiece is the music. Bell Canto (beautiful singing) is the name of the game and Lyric delivered on all counts. Russell Thomas, a Verdi veteran, seemed to be struggling with the higher notes at the outset, perhaps a victim of then pesky viruses that seemed to haunt most of my seatmates, but he managed to pull out all the stops after the intermission.
Soprano Michelle Bradley proved once again with her voluptuous voice and commanding stage presence that Leontyne definitely ordained a successor in this signature role. Through April 7 at the Civic Opera House. Visit lyricopera.org.