Performance

AIDA – the beautiful, monumental opera was commissioned in 1869 by Ismail Pasha, the Khedive of Egypt, for the grand opening of the Suez Canal; unfortunately, it was not staged for that occasion. Initially, Verdi wasn't interested in the libretto's subject matter, but the fabulous honorarium of 150,000 gold francs and the freedom to choose the cast for all roles quickly persuaded him to collaborate. In these comfortable conditions, a timeless and unforgettable work was created. The premiere took place in a natural setting – in Cairo on December 24, 1871.

 

The libretto tells the story of Aida, the daughter of the Ethiopian King Amonasro, who, as a slave at the Egyptian court, falls in love reciprocally with the Egyptian commander, Radames. Unfortunately for her, Radames is also loved by the daughter of the Egyptian king, Amneris. When war breaks out between Ethiopia and Egypt, Radames is chosen as the commander-in-chief of the army. Distraught, Aida wishes her beloved success, knowing, however, that in doing so, she is acting against her own father and country. When the victorious Radames returns from battle, the Egyptian king offers him the hand of his daughter Amneris, while Aida and her father Amonasro are to remain as hostages...

 

Aida, directed by Marek Weiss-Grzesiński, is a story of love and patriotism. It's about the necessity to sometimes choose between these feelings and the tragedies that can result from such dilemmas. The Łódź production captivates with its original and spectacular set design.