AIDA

Join us for an epic World Premiere event as Arizona Opera presents Verdi’s immortal classic, AIDA, returning to the state for the first time in over a decade. Metropolitan Opera star Leah Hawkins makes her debut in the title role, joined by a stellar cast and over 100 singers and musicians in live performance, bringing the masterpiece to life that features some of the most glorious music in opera. In this groundbreaking new production, the ancient and mythical will blend with the modern as Verdi’s incredible score is brought to life in a reimagined world where ancient Egypt never fell.

A spectacular cast—led by the powerhouse quartet of Metropolitan Opera artists Leah Hawkins, Limmie Pulliam, Jennifer Johnson Cano, and Kidon Choi—perform live on-stage against the backdrop of a visually stunning first-of-its-kind feature length Generative-AI film. The film is born from the vision of director and noted projection designer David Murakami, with the partnership of GRAMMY award-winner Karen Slack as dramaturg and artistic collaborator. Stephanie Rhodes Russell returns to Arizona Opera as conductor of AIDA.

Unlike traditional film-accompanied concerts, AIDA’s AI-generated film follows the singers and conductor in real time—reacting to the live performance rather than dictating it. This ensures that the music, storytelling, and energy of live opera always take center stage, making it a true ‘film set to opera’ rather than an ‘opera set to film.’

#azoaida
 

Estimated Running Time: TBD
 

Part of the Arizona Opera Main Stage Series and the Marlu Allan and Scott Stallard Family Series. Production made possible, in part, through generous support from Tucson Desert Song Festival, Jeannette J. Segel, The Julia Pernet Fund held at the Community Foundation of Southern Arizona, Arizona 5 Arts Circle.