The unmissable epic

Sumptuous, passionate and dramatic, Verdi's epic Aida is an icon of the repertoire, full of sonic excellence, ranging from exquisitely intimate to auditorium-filling splendor. Enjoy the story anew in this grand production from Francesca Zambello, making its Chicago premiere in spring 2024. With a starry cast including Michelle Bradley, Jamie Barton, and Russell Thomas, the Lyric Opera's Aida is sure to be a highlight of the 23/24 season!

What is the story?

Set in Ancient Egypt, the story centers around the conflict between forbidden love and hatred for one's enemies.  Aida, a seemingly lowly Ethiopian slave girl is in love with her Egyptian captor Radames, a distinguished warrior on the battlefield. Unbeknownst to everyone however, she is in fact the captured princess from Ethiopia, whose furious father is on his way to rescue her, laying waste to Egypt in his path. Adding to the sense of danger is Amneris, the Egyptian princess, whose intense love for Radames cannot shake the feeling that the mysterious Aida just may be her rival in love.