The Reviews for Aida continue to come in!

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Season Opener “Aida” Will Take Your Breath Away




Director and choreographer Luis Salgado is one of the most visionary artists — and I’m not using hyperbole here — that we have ever seen in St. Louis, among those who come here to put a show together. Last season, he was the driving force behind the award- winning “In the Heights” adaptation.

As Salgado demonstrated directing and choreographing “In the Heights,” he is focused on culture and community. His artistic sensibilities are evident in this show’s lighting, costumes, scenic design and sound. His work staging the ensemble is inspiring, and the energy he harnesses through the Suzuki method — the distinctive swirling motion and fluid movements resembling ballet and martial arts — is a thrill to watch.


Read more here:  The Webster-Kirkwood Time





Stages St. Louis opens season with visually spectacular production of ‘Aida’


“Director Luis Salgado opens Stages’ 2023 season with an electrifying and visually spectacular production of the hit Broadway musical, “Aida,” in a presentation filled with dazzling splendor and engaging performances.


Salgado, who directed and choreographed Stages’ scintillating production of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s “In the Heights” in 2022, returns as both director and choreographer for this magnetic presentation. It includes top-notch performances by many of the primary cast members, including a masterful portrayal in the title role by Wonu Ogunfowora.


The story plays out on scenic designer Kate Rance’s collection of triangles, representing both the complicated loves of Aida, Radames and Amneris, as well as the shape of those famous Egyptian pyramids, all handsomely illuminated with Herrick Goldman’s lighting design. The latter also is utilized in “light sabers” of sorts for the swords wielded by Egyptian soldiers.


Salgado keeps the show moving at a brisk, enjoyable pace and interspersing periods of athletic dancing with his own choreography. Tavia Revee Jefferson serves as cultural coordinator and intimacy director.


Salgado’s direction and choreography seamlessly utilize the mutual talents of designers and performing artists to make this Stages rendition of the John/Rice musical version of “Aida” a winning start to the company’s 37th season.”


READ MORE HERE: LADUE NEWS 

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