Disney's new theatrical spectacle Aida, written/composed by Elton John and Tim Rice, unimaginatively retells the story of a Verdi opera through simplistic lyrics but makes use of impressive technical effects. The musical, playing at The Wang Theatre until April 14, received four Tony Awards, and John and Rice received the 2001 Grammy Award for Best Musical Show Album.
Despite the show's national recognition, Disney Theatrical Productions' Aida disappoints compared to Disney's two past award-winning musicals The Lion King and Beauty and the Beast. John and Rice even wrote the dynamic music and lyrics for the Disney film version of The Lion King.
The Nubian princess Aida (Paulette Ivory) is captured by the Egyptian commander Radames (Jeremy Kushnier) and taken back to Egypt where she becomes the maid-servant for the Egyptian princess, Radames' betrothed, Amneris (Kelli Fournier). In Egypt, Aida falls in love with Radames, creating a love triangle between the two and Amneris. At the same time, however, Egypt is warring with Nubia, which creates a major problem for Aida. On one hand, she loves Radames. On the other, she has a duty to her country.
While the plot sustains the audience's interest, the lyrics generally fail to enhance the story and, further, they lack the imaginative sense reminiscent of so many Disney shows. Rice's lyrics simply string together the narrative. The only variety comes from John's musical compositions, beautifully played by the touring orchestra conducted by Steven Cosmo Mallardi. John, who has amassed 32 gold and 21 platinum albums, 29 consecutive Top 40 Hits and countless Grammy Awards, combines rhythm and blues, gospel, and African sounds. His music adds the necessary variety, proving he has not lost a step.
The social and ethnic toil that defined Africa in the Egyptian Age of Imperialism is well depicted throughout the show. Instead of using traditional African beats, however, John chooses to build the music off of urban-style rhythms from the 21st century. This decision provides an intriguing contrast that works very well, showing that conditions in Africa are still quarrelsome and, even more relevant, that conditions in urban America need improvement to this day.
The musical numbers reflect this quality in all respects. Wayne Cilento's dance choreography is commendable. His choice of styles displays a good understanding of the different cultures presented. The Tony Award winning scene design and costume design by Bob Crowley magnificently captures the essence of ancient Africa. The costumes and scenes set in Nubia reflect the more rural, isolated country, while those set in Egypt conversely represent the lavish, imperial qualities of the country.
Basically, along with Crowley's design-work and John's music, the technical aspects of the production make the show entertaining. The plot suffers from a lack of creativity in the lyrics and the script, but the Tony Award winning lighting design of Natasha Katz, the sound design of Steve C. Kennedy and the abundant technical changes (445 lighting cues!), make the performance a true spectacle.
The main characters all benefit from the direction of Robert Falls, also a co-writer of the script. Ivory, in the title role of Aida, finds the strength and sensitivity of her character. The chemistry between her character and the male love-interest Radames, played by Kushnier, is very realistic and palpable to the audience. When they sing their final song, "Elaborate Lives" a reprise, the tandem of their voices is simply overwhelming.
The third leg of the love-triangle, Amneris, played by Fournier, belts out her songs beautifully. She also has the most developed character in the show and plays the part wonderfully. Bringing the entire show full circle, as most Disney productions love to do, she sings "Every Story is a Love Story" as the first number and then a reprise to end the play.
All in all, the magnificence with which the pictures on stage were painted make up for the feebly told story. And this, in itself, makes Elton John's and Tim Rice's Aida worth the trip.
