Olbinski's Aida

This opera poster is based on Aida, an opera by Giuseppe Verdi. Aida appears as number 16 on Opera America's list of the 20 most-performed operas in North America. This design is featured with approximately 60 genuine swarovski ® crystals. The inset is heavily studded with approximately 150 crystals and is being offered for $124.99 (Email us if this is your choice and the price will be adjusted accordingly.)

Here's a summary of the opera for your enjoyment: ACT ONE: Aida, an Ethiopian slave, is held by Princess Amneris in ancient Egypt. Aida is a princess herself, the daughter of Amonasro, the King of Ethiopia. The Ethiopian army is about to invade and Radames hopes to become commander of the Egyptian forces. Radames is in love with Aida, and if he takes command he'll be able to free her from slavery. But there's one problem. Amneris is also in love with Radames. She unhappingly suspects his feelings for Aida. Radames does get the supreme command, but although she's deeply in love with Radames, she's also faithful to her country and to her father, Amonasro. ACT TWO: Months later, the Egyptians have turned back the Ethiopian attack. As Amneris waits for Radames to return from battle she confronts Aida and lies, telling Aida that Radames has been killed. Aida's pained reaction reveals that she and Radames are in love. Amneris then admits that Radames is alive, but warns Aida that they are rivals, and she has no intention of losing Radames to her own slave. Radames and his army return with Ethiopian prisoners. Aida recognizes her father, Amonasro, among them. Speaking for his fellow prisoners, Amonasro claims the King of Ethiopia was killed and begs mercy from the Egyptians. Radames urges the Egyptian king to release the prisoners, which he does—all but Amonasro. Then the King rewards Radames with the hand of Amneris in marriage. ACT THREE: Aida has made plans to meet Radames shortly before his wedding. Before he arrives, Aida's father urges her to trick him to reveal the Egyptian plan for invading Ethiopia. Aida refuses and Amonasro scolds her for disloyalty and she gives in. Radames appears and Amonasro hides. Aida wants to be taken with him to Ethiopia. He agrees and tells her his army’s attack route. Hearing this, Amonasro steps forward. Radames realizes his enemy has heard everything. But Amneris has also been eavesdropping. She steps out of hiding and accuses Radames of treason. Radames turns himself over to his soldiers. ACT FOUR: Amneris urges Radames to defend himself, but he refuses. When Radames learns that Aida is still alive, he decides that his own death is the way to save her. Amneris goes into a jealous tirade. Still, when the Priests condemn Radames to death, Amneris begs for mercy, then curses them as he's lead away. As his punishment, Radames is to be sealed alive in an underground tomb, beneath a temple, where he'll slowly suffocate and die. The final scene takes place in that tomb, but we can also see the temple above it. Radames is waiting for death when Aida steps from the shadows. She hid herself in the tomb before it was sealed so they can die together. As they sing their mournful goodbyes, Amneris is above in the temple, praying for peace.