AIDA, with music by Giuseppe Verdi (1813-1901) and a libretto by Antonio Ghislanzoni, is a staple of the operatic repertoire.  The story, set in the Old Kingdom of Egypt, tells of tragic love challenged by jealousy and loyalty to country and family.  Commissioned by Cairo�s Khedivial Opera House, it was premiered there on December 24th, 1871 in a performance conducted by Giovanni Bottesini, although, due to a limited audience, Verdi considered the performance at La Scala in Milan on February 8th, 1872 to be the true premiere. The Triumphal March and Ballet from the opera has become a part of popular culture, showcasing the grand spectacle found in opera.