ACT I.
Scene 1.
In ancient Egypt, near the royal palace at Memphis, Radamès learns from the high priest, Ramfis, that Ethiopia soon may bring war to the Nile valley. The young officer hopes he will be chosen to command the army, envisioning triumph so he can free his beloved Aida, Ethiopian slave of the proud Princess Amneris. Amneris, who herself loves Radamès, jealously senses his feelings for Aida when the three meet. When a messenger brings news that the Ethiopian army under Amonasro is advancing on Thebes, the King appoints the jubilant Radamès as Egyptian commander, at which battle cries fill the air. Left alone, Aida is torn between her love for Radamès and for her native land: she is in fact the daughter of Amonasro, king of Ethiopia. She prays to the gods for mercy.

Scene 2.
As priestesses chant the praises of almighty Ptah, priests consecrate Radamès’ sword in a sacred ritual.

ACT II.
Scene 1.
Ethiopia has been defeated. Amneris, entertained by slaves, prepares for Radamès’ triumphal entry into Thebes. When Aida approaches, the princess tricks Aida into revealing her love for Radamès by first announcing he is dead, then saying he is alive. Now certain of Aida’s feelings, Amneris scornfully dares Aida to compete with her for Radamès, and then leaves her slave in torment.

Scene 2.
All Thebes has gathered for the triumphal procession. After receiving the crown of victory from Amneris, Radamès asks mercy for the captured Ethiopians. Aida lets slip that one of them is her father, but keeps his identity as king secret. Uneasy, Ramfis insists that Aida and her father must stay as hostages. The King agrees to this bargain and gives the hand of Amneris as a crowning gift. Amneris gloats, while Radamès and Aida despair.

Intermission

ACT 3.
Scene 1.
On a moonlit bank of the Nile, Ramfis leads Amneris to the temple of Isis to prepare for the wedding. Waiting for Radamès nearby, Aida is overcome with nostalgia for her homeland. Suddenly Amonasro appears and preys on these feelings, forcing Aida to ask Radamès where the Egyptian army plans to enter Ethiopia. This she does when Radamès appears, ardent with dreams of their life together. Just as he reveals the military secret, Amonasro steps out of hiding. Then Amneris, who has overheard, brings Ramfis and the priests out of the temple. Radamès prevents Amonasro from killing Amneris, but lets father and daughter escape. Now a traitor, he surrenders.

Intermission

ACT 4.
Scene 1.
Awaiting trial, Radamès is unmoved by Amneris’ offer to save him if he will renounce Aida and marry her. When Radamès is led away, Amneris is overwhelmed by remorse when she hears him condemned to death. Enraged, she curses the judges.

Scene 2.
Buried alive in a tomb, Radamès is joined by Aida, who has hidden there to share his fate. The lovers bid farewell to earth as Amneris, above the tomb, prays for peace.

-- adapted from Opera News

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