No stranger to the Metropolitan Opera’s stage, acclaimed soprano Anna Netrebko sang the title role in Giuseppe Verdi’s Aida to open the Met’s 13th series of Live in HD broadcasts. She made her Met debut of the role in September and gave a superlative performance for this broadcast. Not to be outdone, mezzo-soprano Anita Rachvelishvili was fantastic as Aida’s rival Amneris. Quinn Kelsey did not disappoint as Aida’s father Amonasro, and Ryan Speedo Green imbued his role of The King with a welcomed gravitas. Aleksandrs Antonenko as Radames was the lone weak link in an otherwise outstanding cast.

The word “epic” is sadly overused, but it truly applied to this stage production, with its massive sets and small army of background extras. The orchestra, under conductor Nicola Luisotti, was more than equal to the performers and production.

The Met has made some weird staging and casting decisions in recent years. Thankfully, there was nothing weird or off-putting about Aida. The lavish sets, huge cast, and outstanding performances from the principals marked a refreshing and welcome throwback to traditional grand opera.

Overall rating 8/10