The Dayton Opera will showcase Giuseppe Verdi's renowned opera "Aida" this coming April at the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance in Ohio. Performances are scheduled for April 4 at 7:30 p.m. and April 6 at 2:30 p.m.
The production will be helmed by experienced director Kathleen Clawson, whose impressive portfolio includes 19 productions since 2009, among them notable world premieres such as "Shoes for the Santo Niño" (2011) and "UnShakeable" (2016).
Under the musical direction of conductor Keitaro Harada, the performance features a distinguished cast with soprano Laquita Mitchell in the lead role of Aida. Tenor Nathan Granner will perform as Radamès, while mezzo-soprano Deborah Nansteel takes on the role of Amneris.
The supporting cast includes baritone Darren Lekeith Drone portraying Amonasro, bass-baritone Kenneth Kellogg as Ramphis, and bass Allen Michael Jones as the King of Egypt. Rounding out the ensemble are soprano Amber R. Monroe as the High Priestess and tenor Chaz'men Williams-Ali as the Messenger.
This staging of "Aida" promises to deliver the grandeur and emotional depth that has made Verdi's masterpiece a favorite among opera enthusiasts worldwide. Set against the backdrop of ancient Egypt, the tragic love story follows the forbidden romance between the Ethiopian princess Aida and the Egyptian military commander Radamès, caught between duty, patriotism, and passion.
Audiences can expect spectacular sets, lavish costumes, and powerful vocal performances that capture the opera's themes of conflicted loyalty, jealousy, and ultimate sacrifice. The Dayton Opera's production aims to balance traditional operatic elements with fresh interpretative touches under Clawson's thoughtful direction.
Tickets for this limited engagement are available through the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance box office, with various seating options to accommodate different preferences and budgets. Opera aficionados and newcomers alike are encouraged to experience this timeless tale brought to life by some of today's most accomplished operatic talents.