Aida tells the story of Radames, an Egyptian warrior, and Aida, the Nubian princess who’s captured and taken as a slave. Radames returns to Egypt with his conquests and presents Aida as a gift for his fiancée, the Egyptian princess Amneris. As their lives continue to intersect, Radames and Aida fall in love, having to hide their feelings or face the consequences of traitors in Egypt. This epic love story is based on the Italian opera by Giuseppe Verdi of the same name.
The set, designed by Jim Dardenne is rather unique and abstract with a transparent pyramid center stage. Throughout the performance, the pyramid separates and becomes used as various set backdrops, like the princess’s bedroom or the palace, and small set pieces are brought on and off. The majority of the set if left bare with different scenic backdrops, leaving plenty of space for the action to occur without overpowering it.
Amneris (Erin Mosher) opens the show with “Every Story is a Love Story.”Mosher is powerful and soulful, commanding the audience to focus in on the action as she controls the stage. She continues to be both elegant and fascinating, bringing substance and depth to a seemingly superficial character.
Jared Zirilli as Radames quickly finds the depth of his character and really brings him to life, especially during “Fortune Favors the Brave” when Zirilli shows off his singing talents. He's very charismatic and comfortable both on stage and in his characterization, becoming a powerful force that's a joy to watch.
After Aida and Radames meet, it's clear that there's an attraction. Stephanie Umoh and Zirilli have wonderful stage chemistry and the tension between them permeates into the audience. There's an abundance of emotion behind their actions that's displayed through every possible way: their words, body language, facial expressions and physical movements.
Aida (Umoh) herself is a strong and mesmerizing character. Umoh has a stellar, powerhouse voice that brings down the house when she belts out her big notes. She exudes confidence as the princess turned slave and Umoh never forgets her back story, allowing it to come through in her performance. It’s an absolute pleasure every time she takes the stage.
Although Aida and Radames have fallen for each other, he's promised to Amneris and Radames's father, Zoser, will do everything in his power to see the union complete. Darren Mathias as Zoser has a strong, fluid singing voice, but I wish he emoted a bit more while singing. I would have liked to see some of the strength of his voice in his body language and in his eyes. That said, Matthias does a nice job of playing the manipulative, throne-hungry father.
The singing throughout Aida is spectacular, but there are a couple of times when the key seems too high or low for the men. The dance breaks during the music are also really well done. Choreographed by Jim Corti who also directed the show, the choreography is killer and the talent displayed is really something to see.
The lighting design (Jesse Klug) additionally adds another layer of intrigue to this musical. The lighting not only adds ambiance but helps bring forth the emotions of the characters. It really helps to move the story along and tie all the action together.
Aida plays at Drury Lane Theatre (100 Drury Lane, Oak Brook) through May 29. Tickets are $25 to $45 with lunch and dinner specials from $49.75 to $68 and can be purchased by calling 630-530-0111.
3.5/4 stars
