Cape Town Opera is proud to announce that the filmed version of its world-class production of Verdi’s Aida, staged earlier this year at Artscape Theatre in Cape Town, will be released exclusively at select Ster-Kinekor cinemas nationwide from 27 – 30 September.
This marks the first time that a locally-produced opera is filmed for the big screen.
Cape Town Opera’s spectacular all-South African production is set in a world of African futurism, and reimagines the classic tale of love, loyalty and betrayal combined with epic storytelling and cutting-edge design, video and animation.
Set against a backdrop of war, forbidden love and cultural conflict, this timeless opera follows Aida, an enslaved Ethiopian princess, and Radamès, an Egyptian military commander, as they navigate love amidst loyalty, betrayal and the clash between two civilizations. This innovative production redefines grand opera within an African context.
Lynne Wylie, chief marketing officer at Ster-Kinekor, said the cinema chain was excited to share this local production with opera lovers on the big screen. “Screening alternative content such as opera, theatre and ballet, resonates strongly with our audiences. This is a wonderful opportunity as we believe in the power of cinema to connect audiences with powerful stories, and we are sure our audiences are going to enjoy the experience.”
Under artistic director Magdalene Minnaar’s direction, Aida’s 153-year-old story is told in a unique, indigenous and thoughtful way. Using extensive video and animation alongside vibrant costumes, this futuristic world is vividly brought to life with the help of renowned South African choreographer Gregory Maqoma. By manipulating light, shadow and form, the set unfolds in layers, creating a dynamic space that evolves with the story.
The design is both minimalistic and monumental, combining geometric forms with futuristic lighting to evoke grandeur and mystery. The aim for this unique interpretation is to feel unexpected yet deeply resonant, leaving the audience captivated by this new artistic interpretation.
Aida is a fusion of grand opera and African artistry. This production features a chorus of 56 singers and dancers, with U.S.-based conductor Kamal Khan leading the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra and has been dubbed a cultural highlight for South Africa in 2025. Captured live on stage, this cinema release gives audiences around the country the chance to experience some of South Africa’s finest singers, dancers and musicians in a production that is bold, resonant and unforgettable.
The concert film will be screened on 27, 28 and 30 September at the following Ster-Kinekor sites: Eastgate, Cresta and Rosebank Nouveau in Johannesburg; Brooklyn in Tshwane; MooiRivier in Potchefstroom; Mimosa in Bloemfontein; Watercrest in Hillcrest, KZN; Baywest in Gqeberha; Garden Route in George; Somerset Mall in Somerset West; and Blue Route, V&A Waterfront, and Tygervalley in Cape Town
Bookings for this exclusive concert film are now open on the new-look Ster-Kinekor website at www.sterkinekor.com or download the new SK App on your smartphone. For news and updates, go to Facebook: Ster-Kinekor Theatres | and follow Ster-Kinekor on Twitter: @Ster-Kinekor. For all queries, call Ticketline on 0861-Movies (668 437). Loyalty cards do apply where applicable, including Ster-Kinekor’s half-price Tuesdays on all ticket prices.
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