Aida set to light up Katara’s Amphitheatre

Katara, the Cultural Village, welcomes the critically acclaimed opera, Aida, composed by Giuseppe Verdi. The event will mark the first live performance at Katara’s magnificent Amphitheatre, open to the public. Opening on Thursday 18^th October at 7:30pm, the opera will continue with an additional performance on Saturday 21^st October at 7:30pm.

Aida, conducted by Giovanni Bottesini was first performed at the Khedivial Opera House in Cairo on 24^th December 1871. An opera in four acts, Aida tells the tale of a forbidden love of Aida, a Nubian princess, captured and enslaved by the Egyptian army. She falls in love with ambitious Egyptian soldier, Radames promised to the King’s daughter Amneris. She is faced with the decision of choosing between her own true love and her loyalty to the people.

President of Katara, Abdulrahman Al-Khulaifi said: “We are delighted to host the world renowned opera, Aida at Katara’s Amphitheatre which provides the perfect back drop for such an iconic piece of theatrical art. Katara is dedicated to showcasing the diverse cultures of the world; this event is a testimonial of our commitment to the growth of the arts and culture scene in the Middle East. The Amphitheatre doesn’t only provide a spectacular location but an enthralling experience, taking you back in time.”

Verdi’s acclaimed opera; Aida brings together over 80 choruses, 12 ballet dancers, and 35 actors who come together with 8 of the world’s most famous Verdi singers. Under the baton of Verdi specialist Pier Giorgio Morandi, performers will join forces with the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra to bring Qatar music at its best. Aida showcases set design masterpieces designed by renowned Igor Mitoraj, known for his unique sculptural work.

In December 2011, Katara’s Amphitheatre was officially inaugurated with a rare, outstanding, live performance by world renowned Greek Composer, Vangelis, best known for his iconic, award-winning musical score for the film Chariots of Fire. The Amphitheatre was designed by Cansault Maunsil LTD and Architectural Consulting Group U.A.E and completed in the year 2008.

The 3,275sqm theatre is a crafted balance between the classical Greek theatre concept and the everlasting Islamic features, standing firm in the heart of Katara overlooking the radiant blue sea of Qatar. The Amphitheatre will host major events in Doha from all over the world with the capacity to accommodate 5,000 seated persons very comfortably.

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