Verona Opera Festival Celebrates its 100th Anniversary with Aida

On June 16, 2023, the Arena di Verona opened the 100th anniversary of its annual opera festival with a modern rendition of G. Verdi’s Aida. 

Directed by Stefano Poda, the production seamlessly blended the striking beauty of the Roman amphitheater with multimedia installations. The stage featured a metal hand emerging from the center, surrounded by Greek columns in ruins. Laser displays and creative lighting enhanced the drama of the performance while adding solemnity to the iconic opera. This style aroused the perplexity of music lovers who expected a classical representation yet fulfilled the taste of those favoring more contemporary musical contexts. Under the musical direction of Marco Armiliato, the performance flowed with precision and exuded grandeur. The orchestra complimented Anna Netrebko’s portrayal of Aida, and all artists transformed the triumphal march into postmodern choreography. 

In honoring the enduring allure of opera and its timeless emotional impact, the special anniversary aimed to unite audiences worldwide. The Verona public administration enabled citizens to collectively witness the festivities and celebrate the festival’s centenary by installing giant screens in various different city squares. This initiative mirrors the festival’s message of music as a universal language. 

Tannis Norton