Franco Zeffirelli’s arena-scale production of Verdi’s Aida has been confirmed for two performances at Adelaide Oval on Friday 26 February and Saturday 27 February 2027, as part of the 2027 Adelaide Festival program.

Originally scheduled for February 2026, the large-scale international production was postponed due to unforeseen global shipping challenges impacting the transport of 28 containers of costumes, sets, instruments and technical equipment from Verona.

Aida at Arena di Verona. Photo supplied

The colossal production will feature 389 international performers and staff from the Fondazione Arena di Verona, complemented by 300 local cast and crew, including 155 extras and a 50-member chorus from State Opera South Australia. The production will include 106 musicians of the renowned Fondazione Arena di Verona Orchestra. The international principal cast will be announced in early 2026.

The cancelled 2026 production was to have featured Jonas Kaufman and Angel Blue.

The production will feature 106 musicians from the renowned Fondazione Arena di Verona Orchestra. Direction is by Franco Zeffirelli, with stage direction by Stefano Trespidi. The international principal cast will be announced in early 2026.