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Aida is a rock opera in every sense of the term. Elton John spans musical genres, going from Pop to Caribbean sounds to contemporary love ballads. And though the show is presented by Disney Theatrical Productions, make no mistake about it, the musical is Elton John and Tim Rice's Aida. The music is quintessential Elton John; the lyrics by Tim Rice sophisticated and soulful.
One has to forgive some of the plot holes that can be found throughout the story. The writers ask the audience to take certain leaps in order to keep the production flowing and it is really not difficult to do. For instance, Aida does not want her identity as the Nubian princess to be known yet she gives her real name when asked in the first act, setting the stage for her people who are enslaved by the Egyptians to come to her with hope and expectations. Also, after some mild flirtation and growing interest in one another, Aida and Radames suddenly fall madly, deeply in love with one another. The transition is immediate instead of gradual and the audience is simply asked to understand.
The cast of the touring production was excellent. Simone played the title character with a strength and calm befitting nobility. Blessed with a strong voice, she was perfectly cast for the role originated by Heather Headley on Broadway. Patrick Cassidy was well-suited for the part of Radames, with the good looks and physique expected for this Egyptian captain. His singing was definitely adequate but his range was notably lacking when singing in duet or in concert with the two female leads who could flat-out wail. Kelli Fournier was simply outstanding as Amneris. I thought that the character would primarily serve as the proverbial third wheel, acting as a blockade of sorts to the blossoming romance between Aida and Radames. But thanks primarily to the great portrayal by Fournier, Amneris was probably the best character, showing growth from beginning to end and performing comical and dramatic feelings with great dexterity. Jacen R. Wilkerson was enjoyable in lightening some of the mood as the slave Mereb. And Neal Benari turned in a very Scar-like performance as the villainous Zoser.
Though the story is set in ancient times, the show has a very contemporary feel to it. Costumes, lighting and sets provide a very modern feel to the production. A modern-day fashion show even breaks out during Act One. The opening and closing of the play bookend the middle very well, capturing the musical's theme of eternal love.
It would seem appropriate to compare Aida with Beauty and the Beast and The Lion King stage productions, but that would be unfair. Aida was written for the stage instead of being adapted for it from an animated film. Aida is intended for a more adult audience, which is one of the reason's it is not called Disney's Aida. The language used in the songs is more complex and the subject matter is less "family friendly." It also does not have the traditional happy ending that is associated with Disney productions. However, Aida does share the Disney production values and quality of entertainment that is found in both Beauty and Lion King.
Elton John and Tim Rice's Aida - A New Broadway Musical won four Tony awards: Best Score for John and Rice; Best Lead Actress in a Musical for Heather Headley; Best Scenic Design for Bob Crowley; and Best Lighting Design for Natasha Katz. The touring production performs at the Ahmanson Theater in Los Angeles through January 5, 2002 before moving on to Tucson, Arizona, January 8. For more information, visit the official Aida website on Disney.com (http://www.disneyonbroadway.com).
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