A debut by Alexander Nikitin in the opera Aida

The plot of the opera is based on a legend from a period of lengthy battle between the kings of ancient Egypt and Nubia (Ethiopia), the personal drama of the protagonists unfolding against a background of monumental crowd scenes, triumphant marches and anthems. The main conflict in Aida is linked with one of Verdi’s favourite themes – the struggle with national oppression, here embodied in the image of the opera’s eponymous heroine and Amonasro, her father and the King of Ethiopia.

At the Mariinsky Theatre, Alexander Nikitin has already performed the roles of majestic warriors, among them Prince Igor and Napoleon. The role of the King of Ethiopia will be his first major role in the Italian repertoire with the Mariinsky Opera Company.