Amongst the audience at the production of Verdi's Aida at Masada this year were no less than 3 buses of ESRA opera fans all organised most efficiently by Judy Copeland, ESRA's administrator at Beit Fisher. Linda Gerstl from Rishon Lezion sent us this report:


"So we were off! Since January we have been looking forward to our trip to see the Aida performance at Masada on June 9th.  Now we were finally aboard our minibus, about to achieve take-off! Janet Kiesari coordinated the trip for the Rishon area and, with only a slight hitch by late arrivals due to Thursday afternoon Israeli traffic jams, we departed almost on time.  
The bus was cozy (i.e. some had trouble with leg room!) but it was a lovely opportunity to meet new and old friends.

We arrived at the Masada site right on time where we were all gratified and, I admit mildly surprised, to find that all was well organized: traffic direction, a lovely picnic area and a well-mannered crowd.  No shouting, no pushing, no raised voices!  We were able to eat our picnic dinners in pleasant surroundings and spend some “quality” time with our new friends.

And on to the show!  

The music was performed impeccably by The Israel Symphony Orchestra of Rishon LeZion under the direction of conductor Daniel Oren with impressive choral support provided by The Israeli Opera Chorus and Singers of the Tel Aviv Philharmonic Choir. The lead role of Aida was interpreted convincingly by Kristin Lewis, ably supported by the other lead characters.  A troupe of young dancers from Rahat and Arad gave a lively performance in the triumphal scene.  Subtitles in English and Hebrew were provided on four large screens clearly visible from all parts of the arena. It should be mentioned that the English translation was perfect and the updating was always well synchronized with the libretto.  Clever use of lighting technology enabled convincing effects using minimal scenery sets. This was an impressive achievement on a stage of such large dimensions.

That leaves little to add, other than to repeat what others before me have already said: it was fabulous and wonderful!  Truly a very special event not to be missed.  The music, opera singers, actors, dancers, costumes, lighting - all beautiful!  Three hours of pure pleasure and enjoyment with the extra bonus of the enchanting backdrop of Masada.  I know that these few words cannot accurately describe how terrific the whole experience was, so I will leave it at this.

I think a wonderful time was had by all (certainly by my partner and myself!) and we extend many thanks to all the organizers."