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An experience in Verona

Philip remembers:

It was in August 1999 that Philip, Judy and Rachel made a trip to the Arena di Verona to see Aida.
We had spent a few days with friends in Northern Italy and travelled south to Verona by train for what was to be the highlight of our holiday. I had always wanted to visit Verona to see an opera in this amazing setting - 15,000 people in the open air with huge stage sets.

All day it had been raining and I feared the 9pm performance of Aida would be cancelled. As it was the last night of the season there was no second chance. Thankfully at about 8pm the rain stopped. At Judy’s insistence we took towels from the hotel to dry our seats. Being Judy, this process was extended to everyone around us.

It was still a bit chilly, but at least no rain. The performance started on schedule, just as darkness fell. Most of the audience lit the small candles we had been given. The sight was breathtaking.

The production was a bit weird (see photos below) but wonderful nevertheless.

We got to the last scene where the lovers are entombed together. They started singing the beautiful duet, O terra addio and I was spellbound. It was stunning. It was emotional. And then Judy nudged my arm. I ignored her. She did it again and pointed to the sky. For the first time that evening there was a break in the cloud and the moon could be seen, shining down on the ill-fated couple, Radames and Aida.

The moment was perfect. The memory unforgettable.

Extra note
I just found the 1999 production on Youtube complete with weird costumes and canoes.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LPABc53t2ik