Ryan ChartrandWith a dash of musical influence from “The Lion King,” a plot reminiscent of “Romeo and Juliet” and a modern rock-based love story, Cal Poly Arts invites the musical production “Aida” today at 8 p.m. at Harman Hall in the Christopher Cohan Performing Arts Center.
“It’s a rock opera that came from the very famous opera ‘Aida’ done by Disney,” Peter Wilt, interim director of Cal Poly Arts said. “Tim Rice and Elton John took that basic storyline and created their own rock opera.”
The musical revolves around a dramatic love triangle, with two princesses that fall in love with the same soldier. Aida is an enslaved Nubian princess who fights for the love of Ramades, a soldier fighting against Aida’s homeland. Amneris, an Egyptian princess, is also in the mix, and the plot turns into a tumultuous story of love, backstabbing, loyalty and bravery.
Time Magazine calls it “a big, bright show with luscious Elton John melodies.”
Elton John himself said, “‘Aida’ is not opera. It’s truly a pop musical with urban-based rhythm and blues, gospel-inspired song, ballads and, of course, ‘Crocodile Rock’ songs.”
The contemporary production features a diverse cast with flamboyant costumes and an intricate set. The music extends beyond all boundaries of the original opera and showcases emotional ballads and dynamic rock beats.
“Set, costuming and music were the three big standouts,” Wilt said. “There are also some pretty love songs that are more like soft rock.”
“Aida” is traveling all over the West Coast and will be at Cal Poly for one day only. It is sponsored by Joan Sargen, Foundation for the Performing Arts Center and KCBX 90.1 FM.
“We deal with different booking companies that tour these Broadway shows,” Wilt said. “It was available to us this particular season and we heard nothing but really good reports from other people.”
Tickets range from $44 to $54 for students and $56 to $68 for non-students. Student rush prices will not be available for this event.
Before the event, Alyson Lamore, music department faculty member and specialist in music of the Classic Period, will be giving a pre-show lecture on the music in “Aida.” It will take place in the Gallery Lobby at 7 p.m.
She describes the show as a “contemporary musical take on the grand classical tale of love between a soldier and an enslaved princess – a love that condemns them to death, but ultimately transcends the vast cultural differences between two warring nations, heralding an unprecedented time of peace and prosperity.”