The Basingstoke Gazette is delighted to offer you the chance to win tickets to see the grandest of all operas, which returns to The Anvil next month.

Aida returns to The Anvil on Thursday, March 2 with a stunning new traditional production which boasts an impressive and imposing set.

In Aida, the splendour of Egypt is set against the grandeur of the Coliseum of Rome, with the direction influenced by the ancient Greek dramas of Euripides, and symbolising the powerful religious hold of the priests of Egypt.

This tragic story of war, jealousy and revenge, at whose heart is the doomed love of the beautiful Ethiopian slave girl Aida, and the Egyptian hero Radames, is brought to life in a production set against one of the greatest pieces of music Verdi ever wrote. Well-known arias include Celeste Aida, Ritorna Vincitor, and Triumphal March featuring a temple dance, cascades of glittering gold, and amazing fire performers.

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Artistic director and producer Ellen Kent, who has been bringing opera and ballet to the UK and Ireland for 29 years, said: “I have produced and directed many Aida’s over the years and it still remains the biggest challenge a producer can face.

"I try to give Aida the grandeur which Verdi achieved in the first production in Egypt when he was commissioned to write an opera for the opening of the Suez Canal and premiered in Cairo 1871.

"I want audiences to enjoy the grandeur of this magnificent opera, in my opinion, the best score Verdi ever wrote, – not an easy task.  My Aida’s have been described as “The Las Vegas of operas” which I regard as a compliment.”

Ellen has hand-picked all of the soloists and is directing Aida to create a visually beautiful and moving production. Ellen Said “My operas have to be emotional and beautiful.”

Aida will be sung in Italian with English subtitles.

This Ellen Kent Production is presented by Senbla by arrangement with Opera International.

SEE MORE: The Anvil: Philharmonia Orchestra set to return to Basingstoke

For your chance to win a pair of tickets to the performance of Aida at The Anvil on Thursday, March 2, answer the following question:

Which composer wrote the opera Aida?

If you wish to enter please send your answer to: competitions@anvilarts.org.uk.

You must include your name and a daytime telephone number. Please put ‘Gazette Aida ’ in the subject box. Entries must reach Anvil Arts by Friday, February 17. T&Cs apply.