Disney’s Aida

Lighting designer Natasha Katz makes her presence known too, often throwing shafts of light across the stage in criss-cross patterns. These effects often showcase the leading performers as they belt out their solo numbers, and they’re dazzling.

Wayne Cilento’s choreography lets ‘Aida’ down, collapsing into camp during what are the musical’s more sober moments. Radames’ conniving father – a strong voiced John Hickok – is the show’s nominal villain. He and his sinister cohorts cavort in a mock Michael dance number that produces giggles.

Crowley’s scenery moves far more artfully, especially in the musical’s climactic moments as the show swirls back into the present. The message, of course, is the strength of everlasting love, a love that transcends the centuries. Yet what most audiences will take away from ‘Aida’ is the strength of the two women whose lives were changed forever by that love – and the stage presence of the actresses who play them. By Michael Kuchwara AP Drama Critic

Source: Associated Press