Soprano Lisa Daltirus has made Aida a signature role with performances at some of the world's top opera houses, as well as New York's Carnegie Hall and Avery Fisher Hall. From March 3-11, she and Mary Elizabeth Williams share the part of the captive Ethiopian princess at Arizona Opera.
Both Daltirus and Williams return to Arizona Opera after garnering critical acclaim in the Company’s 2009 production of Tosca. As Daltirus explains in this interview, the role of Aida is among the most demanding—and rewarding—for sopranos.
Q: What drew you to opera growing up?
A: While growing up in Plainfield, N.J., my life was centered around church choir, youth group and performing arts programs after school. I studied dance for eight years—ballet, tap and jazz. I took piano lessons for the same.
Opera came more as an epiphany in my senior year of high school. I always sang but was more interested in drama/acting. When the "light bulb" came on, I knew I had a more classic-sounding voice and felt the marriage of my voice and acting would be opera.
Opera came more as an epiphany in my senior year of high school. I always sang but was more interested in drama/acting. When the "light bulb" came on, I knew I had a more classic-sounding voice and felt the marriage of my voice and acting would be opera.
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| Soprano Lisa Daltirus, Arizona Opera's Aida |
A: Verdi calls for a lot of versatility from the lead characters. He employs a large vocal range, dynamics, legato, coloratura and more in his composition. It is very challenging and rewarding to accomplish. His operas have many intimate moments as well as large choral scenes. It's always a great musical experience.
Q: What's the hardest part in portraying Aida?
A: Portraying the role of Aida is challenging to convey both the slave that she is to Amneris while concealing the underlying fact that she is a princess. I feel this fact is what keeps her intriguing to both Amneris and Radames. It is interesting to portray her emotions and ultimate decision regarding pursuing love or loyalty to country.
Q: What do you think has made Aida such a popular opera?
A: First, it is set in an exotic location. It is always interesting to see the set design and for the audience to be able to "transport" themselves to ancient Egypt. Secondly, the spectacle of the Triumphal Scene is always exciting as it incorporates a large chorus, dancers and, whenever possible, some animals. Most importantly, there are arias and scenes for the lead characters that are well known to opera audiences. It creates anticipation as the opera unfolds.
Q: What role have you not performed that you would like to?
A: There are many but of the Verdi repertoire it would be Elisabetta in Don Carlo and Leonore in La Forza del Destino.
Q: When you aren't on tour, where do you live? What do you enjoy in your free time?
A: I live in suburban Philadelphia, Pa. and I spend most of my home time attending to the advancement and care of my children: Lea, who is 18, and Demetrius, who is 16.
I am also very involved in my church. I am a good cook and I enjoy teaching voice when I get the opportunity.
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