Opera lovers in the city can witness another famous presentation by the Metropolitan Opera of New York; this time, Verdi's spectacular opera, Aida will be screened live at the NCPA over the weekend
Giuseppe Verdi’s operas are often hailed as among the greatest of all time, and bringing this spectacle to Mumbai this weekend is a live screening at the NCPA of the opera, Aida that is taking place at New York’s Metropolitan Opera.
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Aida, which was first performed at the Khedivial Opera House in Cairo in 1871, has been performed widely and is much loved by opera fans. It is a four-act opera set to the Italian libretto by Antonio Ghislanzoni.
Aida, an Ethiopian princess, is captured and brought into slavery in Egypt. A military commander, Radamès, struggles to choose between his love for her and his loyalty to the Pharaoh. To complicate the story further, Radamès is loved by the Pharaoh’s daughter Amneris, although he does not return her feelings.
“This is the sixth screening of an opera that is being hosted at the NCPA,” informs Deepa Gahlot, Head Programming (Theatre and Film), NCPA. “The response, so far, has been terrific. We have had a full house for most shows,” she adds.
According to her, there is a sizeable audience that would like to watch an opera and there are many opera lovers who make it a point to come for all the screenings. “Many people come out of curiosity as they might have only heard of the opera but have never been able to witness it. Where else can one get an opportunity to witness an MET Opera presentation?” she asks.
It’s also interesting to note that over the years, many youngsters have been drawn towards the opera. “There is a buzz that has been created, and there are many first-timers and youngsters who come witness it,” shares Gahlot, adding that there is a growing interest for opera in the city. “Besides, such live screenings gives opera lovers a feeling that they are part of a larger global opera-loving community,”
she adds.
On January 12 and 13
At NCPA, Nariman Point.
Tickets Rs 500
Call 22824567 / 66548135u00a0