Stanislavsky Theatre
Performed in Italian Premiere of this production: 14 Apr 2014 The performance has 1 intermission Running time: 3 hours 15 minutes The premiere of Aida in Peter Stein’s staging took place at The Stanislavsky Theatre, located in XIX century historical building just 750 metres (9-minute walk) from the Bolshoi. Giuseppe Verdi’s Aida stands at the very pinnacle of the operatic repertoire—so iconic that in English-speaking countries it has long been jokingly referred to as part of opera’s “ABC” (Aida, Bohème, Carmen). The production features outstanding soloists who have not only appeared on the stage of the Bolshoi, but were also trained at the same renowned academies as its leading stars. Opera at the Stanislavsky Theatre is the great and affordable alternative to the Bolshoi. Traditionally, Aida has been the preserve of the largest “imperial” opera houses, famous for their monumental approach: massive choruses, grandiose processions, spectacular ballet scenes, and sometimes even live animals in the famous triumphal finale. But at its heart, Aida is not about sheer scale—it is a story of love, fidelity, betrayal, and passion. Peter Stein sought to strip away the glittering façade and restore Verdi’s vision of an intimate psychological drama. Far from the cliché of endless forte, much of Verdi’s score lives in the realm of piano and pianissimo. Behind the grandeur lies a deeply human conflict: a timeless love triangle in which two women are bound by their devotion to the same man, while politics, war, religion, and intrigue serve merely as the backdrop. SynopsisAct One In the Pharaoh’s palace in Memphis, the High Priest Ramfis informs the commander of the palace guard, Radamès, that hostile Ethiopians are preparing to attack Egypt again. Radamès dreams of leading the Egyptian army. He loves Aida, the slave of Pharaoh’s daughter Amneris, and hopes that military triumph will allow him to free Aida and marry her. But Amneris herself is in love with Radamès. Jealous, she notices his affection for Aida. A messenger brings news of the approaching Ethiopian army. The Pharaoh appoints Radamès commander-in-chief. Torn between love for Radamès and loyalty to her homeland—she is the daughter of the Ethiopian king Amonasro—Aida prays to the gods for mercy. At the Temple of Vulcan, Radamès undergoes a ritual of consecration. Ramfis urges him to protect his country. Act Two In Amneris’s chambers: the Ethiopian army has been defeated. Amneris awaits Radamès’ return, hoping to become his bride. Aida appears. The princess dismisses the servants to uncover the secret of her slave. At first, she tells Aida that Radamès has perished, then reveals the truth: he is alive. Aida’s despair and joy leave no doubt of her love for Radamès. Amneris vows to destroy her rival. At the gates of Thebes: the victorious army marches in with Radamès at its head. Captured Ethiopians are brought in, among them Aida’s father, Amonasro. He implores his daughter not to reveal his identity. Radamès requests that the Pharaoh spare the defeated enemy. The Pharaoh frees the prisoners but keeps Amonasro as a hostage. As a reward for his victory, Radamès is to receive Amneris’ hand in marriage. Act Three On the banks of the Nile: Amneris, accompanied by Ramfis, goes to the temple. Aida awaits a secret meeting with Radamès, lost in thoughts of her homeland. Suddenly, Amonasro appears, demanding that Aida learn from Radamès the route the Egyptian army will take into Ethiopia. He hides as Radamès arrives. Radamès swears love to Aida and agrees to flee with her. Aida asks the path the army will take. As soon as Radamès reveals the secret, Amonasro appears. Radamès is in despair, realizing he has betrayed his country. Ramfis and Amneris emerge from the temple. Amonasro and Aida escape. Radamès surrenders to the priests. Act Four In the Pharaoh’s underground hall, Radamès awaits trial. Amneris offers him salvation if he renounces Aida, but he remains steadfast. The court finds him a traitor and condemns him to be buried alive. Amneris’ pleas to the priests are in vain. At the Temple of Vulcan, Aida enters the tomb to share Radamès’ fate. The lovers bid farewell to life. Above, in the temple, Amneris mourns her destiny. | ||||||||||
