In the current directorial production, "Aida" premiered in 2014, with Dražen Siriščević at the helm of direction, Juraj Zigman designing exquisite costumes, and Slaven Raos creating a grandiose set that breathes life into the Peristil. This production has been hailed as the most opulent staging of "Aida" ever witnessed within the Peristil's majestic walls.
Embark on a mesmerizing journey as the story unfolds across four acts. In the first act, set in the royal palace hall in Memphis, Egypt, news spreads of Ethiopian invaders breaching the pharaoh's land. A young warrior, Radames, is appointed by the king as the commander of the Egyptian forces, entrusted with the mission to destroy the enemy. His victory holds the promise of not only glory but also freedom for his beloved Aida, a slave in the pharaoh's court. However, any triumph by Radames will bring despair to Aida's people, while an Ethiopian victory carries the death of the beloved hero. The tragic conflict between love and duty intensifies with the jealousy of Amneris, the pharaoh's daughter, who also harbors affections for the young warrior.
In the second act, the scene shifts to the Temple of Vulcan in Memphis, where a solemn ceremony unfolds. The supreme priest bestows upon Radames a sacred sword, invoking prayers to the gods for protection and victory in the Egyptian warfare.
As the narrative progresses into the third act, the royal chamber comes alive with anticipation. Amneris eagerly awaits the victorious Radames, preparing to crown him with the laurels of triumph. Aida, accompanied by Amneris, is deceived into believing that the Egyptian victory has come at the high cost of Radames' life. Overwhelmed by grief and her emotions towards the young hero, Aida's despair further fuels Amneris' jealousy and incites the wrath of the pharaoh's daughter. Radames returns as the triumphant hero. As a reward for his military achievements, he is promised Amneris' hand in marriage, and together they are destined to rule Egypt. At Radames' request and guided by the advice of the high priest, the Ethiopian prisoners, including Aida's father, King Amonasro, are set free, with only the two of them held as hostages to prevent another uprising. Aida is shattered as she witnesses Radames leading Amneris into the palace.
In the third act, on the banks of the Nile, Aida learns of the Egyptian battle plans from Radames, as directed by her father. She convinces him to flee. However, due to this betrayal, the high priest declares Radames a traitor and orders his arrest.
Fourth act: Antechamber in front of the palace staircase - Radames, accused of treason, awaits his trial in the dungeon. Amneris seeks to save him on the condition that he renounces Aida, but the unfortunate prisoner refuses - he would rather die. According to the verdict, he will be buried alive. Amneris despairs and curses the judges. The final scene takes us to the tomb - Faithful Ethiopian slave, Aida, dies together with Radames, willingly entombing herself alive alongside him, while Amneris prays over their grave.