Giuseppe Verdi’s grandest work—the story of a kidnapped Ethiopian princess who is brought to Egypt and thrust into one of opera’s most emotionally and morally complex love triangles—lends itself to extravagance. However, seasoned operagoers know it takes a rare cast and production team to maintain emotional intimacy and charge amid the pageantry. Fortunately, SF Opera has a reputation for delivering an Aida that’s been heralded as one of the best. The classic’s first SF run in nearly a decade will feature renowned conductor Nicola Luisotti and legendary British fashion designer Zandra Rhodes at the helm, plus a singularly talented cast including star tenor Marcello Giordani.

September 10-December 5, sfopera.com