The Embassy hosted on Friday May 17th 2019 a remarkable performance of “Opera Aida” one of the most popular and best – known operas in the world. The performance at the embassy was presented by the talented singers and musicians of the Washington Opera Society. The free venue and the complimentary authentic Egyptian dinner were generously offered by the Ambassador to our dear guests who came to enjoy the masterpiece of Itlay’s great composer Giuseppe Verdi. Contrary to widespread belief, Aida was not written to celebrate the opening of the Suez canal in 1869. Verdi was actually commissioned by the Khedive of Egypt Ismail Pasha to write an opera to celebrate the opening of the khedivial opera house. After some delay due to the war in Europe at that time, Aida eventually premiered in Cairo in 1871.