The first of Opera Australia's critically-acclaimed digital productions, Aida, by Italian director and choreographer Davide Livermore, will finally have its Melbourne premiere this month.
Using state-of-the-art technology, Livermore's interpretation of Verdi's world of Egypt takes the audience experience to a whole new level.
Ten towering LED screens create an immersive theatrical experience, as ever-changing floor-to-ceiling set pieces present video design that ranges from rich symbolism to vivid landscapes.
American soprano Leah Crocetto will make her Opera Australia debut in the titular role of Aida.
Joining her will be tenor Stefano La Colla as Radames and a cast of more than 100 musicians, singers, dancers and actors in an extravagant production.
Aida is at the State Theatre from May 6-21.
It will be followed by Verdi's rarely-performed Ernani from May 13-22.
This is the Melbourne premiere of Opera Australia's epic co-production with Milan's famous Teatro alla Scala.
It features two of the country's finest singers, Diego Torre and Natalie Aroyan.
Torre and Aroyan will play Ernani and Elvira respectively, along with powerhouse baritone Vladimir Stoyanov as Don Carlo, King of Spain, and bass Alexander Vinogradov as Don Ruy Gomez de Silva.
Part of Verdi's early repertoire and based on the play titled Hernani by Victor Hugo, Ernani tells the story of a former Don-turned-outlaw whose desire to be with the woman he loves is outweighed only by his duty to honour a vow he once made.
Like all good medieval tales, this opera has intrigue, disguise, betrayal and adventure.
- Both productions are at the State Theatre, Arts Centre Melbourne. For tickets and details go to artscentremelbourne.com.au or phone 1300-182-183.
Geraldine Cardozo
Features Editor at The Senior.
Features Editor at The Senior.
