Theater Review: “Aida” at Desert Hills High School is captivating

Written by Ashley Smith-Paramore

“Aida: High School Edition” is about a love-triangle set in Ancient Egypt adapted from the four-time Tony Award-winning hit with music and lyrics written by Elton John and Tim Rice. The combination of both the performances and technical aspects make the Desert Hills High School “Aida” production one not to be missed.

“Aida” starts out in a modern-day museum with a beautiful backdrop painted with pictures of Egypt that tell their own story. As the audience is taking in this setting, the statue of Princess Amneris comes to life to tell her story. It then transitions to Ancient Egypt with Radames, the captain of the Egyptian army, coming home with a group of women slaves he has captured. In that group is Aida, the princess of Nubia. Aida, keeping her identity a secret, captures Radames’ attention. He makes sure to keep her safe by making her a handmaiden to his betrothed, Amneris. Over the course of just a few short days, Aida and Radames start to fall for each other, which doesn’t sit well with Radames’ father, Egyptian Chief Minister Zoser. With the knowledge that the current Pharaoh is dying, Zoser wants his son to rule Egypt by marrying Amneris and becoming the new Pharaoh. During all of this, Aida is also struggling with her own feelings that she might be a traitor to her people for having those feelings for Radames.

Ani Rogers, the director of “Aida,” has done a wonderful job with this production. Her use of lighting and bright colors throughout the play are a visual treat, and the characters’ costumes are realistically set for their time. The performance also utilizes live music, which definitely adds to the enjoyment of the play. Rogers has also chosen the perfect cast. Aida, played by Kimball Wastlund, has a beautiful voice that is sure to enthrall anyone who hears it. Radames, played by Jayden Wright, is a fun character who is clearly torn on what path he should follow. Amneris, played by Cara Nickels, is always dressed to the nines and provides a beautiful voice as well. Then there’s Zoser, played by Gavin Lawrence, whom you will love to hate. He does a fantastic job at commanding the stage and showing the audience who’s boss.

During the course of the play, the audience will stay captivated by the musical numbers, the beautifully choreographed dances, and the creative use of lighting. You definitely won’t want to miss this play, especially with the fun twist that happens at the end.

“Aida: High School Edition” plays at Desert Hills High School from Wednesday, Nov. 18, through Saturday, Nov. 21, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults or $8 for students, seniors, and children under the age of 12.

Reserve seating tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online at dhhstheatre.org or showtix4u.com (search for “Desert Hills High School—Aida”).