An all-new, mega-opera, version of Verdi's popular Aida begins its world tour at Toronto's Skydome on May 9.

Director Frank Van Laecke, whose credits include the new arena production of La Boheme last month at Vorst National in Brussels, says his intention is to create an unforgettable opera experience, incorporating traditional opera staging with multi-media effects designed to blend the visual with the aural.

Van Laecke also promises a monumental and spectacular set that will aim to capture the history of the opera, along with film and video.

Past mega-operas have certainly been spectacular, but there's been general agreement that stadium acoustics do not make for the purest of opera sounds. So American soprano Nina Edwards (who will sing the role of Aida), mezzo soprano Carolyn Sebron and tenor Michael Sylvestor will certainly have their work cut out for them.

The production will be conducted by its musical director Rudolf Werthen, who along with technical director Johan Lateir, was also involved in the Brussels La Boheme. Ticket information and further production details will be announced in January. Call 416-341 3000.

--By Mira Friedlander
Canadian Correspondent