Opera Naples has announced the cast for its upcoming production of Verdi’s “Aida.”

The production will feature internationally renowned conductor Ramón Tebar, Stage Director Chuck Hudson, and an international cast that includes soprano Svetlana Aksenova in the title role, Marianne Cornetti as Amneris, and Gordon Hawkins as Amonasro.

In a press statement, Tebar noted, “I’m so excited to present, for the first time in Opera Naples’ history, one of the most popular operas of all time. Aida has all the elements of true grand opera; dramatic arias, full chorus, dance, and an exotic story.”

Aksenova is a recognized soprano who has performed “The Queen of Spades” at the Dutch National Opera, the title role in “Rusalka” at the Paris Opera, “Madama Butterfly’s” Cio-Cio-San at the Deutsche Oper Berlin, Norwegian National Opera and Royal Swedish Opera, and many more.

Meanwhile, Cornetti is a recognized mezzo who is well known for her Verdi interpretations and has performed at the Teatro alla Scala and Metropolitan Opera, among many other acclaimed houses.

Hawkins has shared the operatic and concert stage with such distinguished artists as Placido Domingo and Luciano Pavarotti. He recently appeared as Amonasro with Houston Grand Opera and Washington National Opera.

“Aida” will get two performances on Dec. 19 and 21 at the at Artis-Naples’ Hayes Hall.