Royal Opera House Aida

Aida unfolds in ancient Egypt during a time of military conflict with the kingdom of Ethiopia. The titular protagonist is an Ethiopian princess enslaved in the Egyptian court, where she has fallen in love with Radamès, a celebrated Egyptian military commander. Radamès is betrothed to Amneris, the Pharaoh's daughter, who harbors her own passionate feelings for him. When Radamès is appointed to lead Egyptian forces against an invading Ethiopian army, he faces an impossible choice between duty to his nation and his love for Aida. The conflict intensifies as Amneris grows suspicious of the bond between Radamès and her rival. Through a series of dramatic confrontations, secret meetings, and tragic misunderstandings, the opera explores themes of forbidden love, patriotism, and the devastating consequences of divided loyalties. The narrative builds toward a shattering climax that tests the limits of human devotion and sacrifice.