Review: The MUNY Closes with Exceptional AIDA

On a beautiful summer evening, under a half moon sky, and with a gentle breeze wafting through the air, nothing could compare to seeing the final show of the season at The MUNY. They close with yet another stellar selection that's filled with flair and grace. This was especially important and evident when a 25 minute interruption of the proceedings occurred during a Black Lives Matter protest, and a remembrance of the Ferguson shooting of Michael Brown. A huge thank you should be awarded to actor Ken Page, along with Michelle Williams as they came out to address the protests which took place as the second act was set to begin. Page's eloquent and thoughtful speech allowed the action to continue on stage without further incident. All that aside, this is an absolutely vibrant production of AIDA, which sparkles like it never has before. An excellent cast, led by Michelle Williams, formerly of Destiny's Child, and an orchestra that can more than deftly handle the shifts in style the score presents. bring considerable energy and enthusiasm to Elton John's music and Tim Rice's lyrics. And, while the book and music may drift away from versions you've seen before this playful, and sometimes anachronistic, approach to this tale of tragic, star-crossed lovers, is decidedly engaging and entertaining. You'll be enthralled by its majesty!

The Nubians and Egyptians are at war, and unknowingly the Egyptians have captured princess Aida, who captivates the heir to Egypt's throne, Radames. Meanwhile, the Pharaoh is being poisoned by his Radames' father, causing his daughter, who is Radames' fiancee, the overly fashion conscious princess Amneris, distress. It's a love that simply cannot exist, not at this time in ancient history. Their shared love, expressed here in nicely rendered tunes, leads to a tragic demise.

Michelle Williams brings down the house with her powerful performance as Aida. It's simply an outstanding privilege to see her swallow up this vast expanse with her exceptional vocal work. She's also fully into the role emotionally, and so is Zak Resnick's commanding and conflicted Radames. Their songs together have some particularly lovely harmonies, and their relationship is convincing and engaging. Taylor Louderman, as Amneris, has a number of great numbers, and she immerses herself in a role that could just be fluff, but which she uses to show us the insecurities that are actually driving her behavior. Wonza Johnson excels as Mereb, a servant to Radames, who recognizes Aida for who she actually is. Patrick Cassidy is sharp as Zoser, prepping his son for the throne, and channeling a bit of Elton John in his vocalizations during "Like Father, Like Son." Lara Teeter does fine work as the ailing Pharaoh, and Ken Page brings a strong presence to his role as Amonasro, the captured Nubian King, who directs Aida to break all her ties with Egypt.

Matt Lenz has crafted a wonderful staging that touches the heart and moves the soul. One can't help but be completely caught up in the plight of these two people, and that's highly commendable. He's aided by the strong choreography of Jon Rua, who creates a great deal of variety, depending on the situation involved. Andrew Graham's music direction really electrifies the score in a way I haven't heard before, pulling strong performances from everyone involved. Tim Mackabee's scenic design captures the feel of the period and the desert, but changes in cool ways to accommodate some colorful action as well. Robin McGee's costumes are smartly conceived and executed, and so is Nathan W. Scheuer's lighting design.

Don't miss The MUNY's excellent closing show of the season, AIDA! It plays through August 14, 2016.