Aida: A Tale of Love and Loyalty Comes Alive at St. Agnes and Strake Jesuit

St. Agnes Academy's most recent performance was Disney’s hit Broadway musical Aida, the winner of four 2000 Tony awards. The talent and dedication of 60+ cast and crew from SJ and SAA came together to tell this timeless story of love and betrayal against the backdrop of war. Aida aims not only for a spectacular and opulent performance that transcends modern audiences through time to Ancient Egypt, but a narrative that points to the sacrifice of love across divides.

Ayo Cardozo portrays Nubian princess, Aida, who holds deep loyalty and respect to her country as she navigates her conflicting love for Radamès the Egyptian captain who captures her, played by Michael Latiolais. (Photo courtesy of St. Agnes Academy)

Aida, a tragic love story set in Ancient Egypt, details the love triangle between Ethiopian princess, Aida, Egyptian military commander, Radamès, and the Pharaoh's daughter - Amneris. As war rages between Ethiopia and Egypt, Radamès finds himself torn between his duty to his country and his forbidden love for the enslaved princess Aida, as the Pharaoh's daughter, Amneris, also vies for his affections. The intricate plot weaves together the personal struggles of its characters and political drama, resonating with audiences for its universal themes of passion, sacrifice, and the power of love.

Amneris, played by Gabbie Bode, sings a ballad composed by Elton John. (Photo courtesy of St. Agnes Academy)

Composed by Elton John and Tim Rice, Elton’s legendary pop rock style is integrated into a narrative adapted by the 19th century opera’s dramatic storyline. With extravagant costumes, larger-than-life set design, and grandiose dance numbers, Aida makes for a spectacular musical for anyone to watch! Working since January, students from Strake Jesuit and St. Agnes composed of singers, dancers, actors, set-designers, and artists have been working tirelessly in after-school rehearsals to make a magnificent show.  

Ensemble members Isabela Setiawan, Maddie Plummer, and Samaira Bhutani. (Photo courtesy of St. Agnes Academy)

Aida uniquely incorporates a broader ensemble and dance element to enhance a stage presence that immerses its audience from modern time and circumstance to the setting and cultural richness of Ancient Egypt and Ethiopia. With the appointment of John Besant, the new director of dance at St. Agnes, the production of the musical caught a wider net of the student body- not only creating more opportunities for dancers to participate but also challenging actors and singers to expand their skill sets. Junior Meredith Pryor, an assistant student dance choreographer and ensemble member, reflected on the journey of the cast throughout the show, describing it as a "learning curve." She noted that the entire cast embraced the opportunity to step out of their comfort zones and rise to the occasion, commending the “visible effort, even among those who didn't usually consider themselves dancers,” underscoring their willingness and commitment to excel in their roles within the production. This collective effort highlights the collaborative spirit and determination of the cast to bring the world of Aida to life on stage.

In vibrant hues and dynamic shadows, dancers weave their tale amidst the stunning set design of Aida. (Photo courtesy of St. Agnes Academy)

Aaron McAlister, St. Agnes arts director, remarked that Aida was a “timeless story,” but “timely” in the context of recent global conflicts, such as those in Ukraine and the Middle East, as well as the broader human condition in the modern-day, characterized by barriers and perceptions of one another that conflict fabricates. The St. Agnes mission statement leads students to be “stewards of a more inclusive, just, and equitable world,” and this story demonstrates the human tendency to love above all else.