The Seattle Opera’s production of Verdi’s “Aida” can only be described as opera flexing its muscles. Yes, Aida is unabashed in the spectacle that it offers, but it also knows when to dim the lights, streamline the sets, and focus all its energy on moments of human intimacy.

All I knew going in was that “Aida” is an Italian opera that involves a love triangle. Whether it was a tragedy, comedy, or something in between, I had no idea; yet I ended up being extremely thankful for my initial ignorance. I frequently found myself breathless anticipating plot twists and scrutinizing character motives. In fact, I think my ability to fully appreciate the production would have been hampered had I known exactly what I was in for.