Teaneck Native Stars In 'Aida'

TEANECK, NJ – A Teaneck native has taken the center stage as star in a production of the musical “Aida.”

In her debut at the White Plains Performing Arts Center in White Plains, NY, Chelsea Ann Jones will perform as an ensemble cast member in the production, which runs through Oct. 27.

“In Aida, there is a strong community that is created amongst the Nubian people. It is a timeless tale of love prevailing in the face of adversity,” says Jones. She notes that she is the daughter of immigrants and her parents also faced adversity. “Both of my parents migrated from Jamaica. They’ve shared with me the hardships they faced and their strength and perseverance has inspired me to work tirelessly and to follow my dreams,” Jones said.

The recent Temple University graduate’s regional credits include: The Color Purple (Theatre Horizon), Coriolanus (Shakespeare in Clark Park), Bonnie and Clyde (11th Hour Theatre Company), Stella Luna and Other Tales & Newsies (Greater Ocean City Theatre Company). Educational credits include: Hairspray, Guys and Dolls & Chicago (Temple University). Chelsea-Ann is also a two-time winner at the Apollo Theater’s Amateur Night. Upcoming: Little Shop of Horrors (Theatre Horizon).

Winner of four Tony Awards, Aida is a story of love, loyalty and betrayal, with a Tony and Grammy Award winning score by Elton John and Tim Rice.

The plot centers around an enslaved Nubian princess, Aida, who finds her heart entangled with Radames, an Egyptian soldier betrothed to the Pharaoh’s daughter, Amneris. As their forbidden love blossoms, Aida is forced to weigh her heart against the responsibility that she faces as the leader of her people. Aida and Radames’ love for one another becomes a shining example of true devotion that ultimately transcends the vast cultural differences between their warring nations, heralding a time of unprecedented peace and prosperity.

Along with Jones, the production stars Kim Onah as Aida, with Jordan Bollwerk as Radames and Kristin Wetherington as Amneris. The show also features Andrew Foote (Zoser), Devin J. Hall (Mereb), John Anthony Lopez (Pharaoh), Kevin Brooks (Amonosro), Blair Beasley (Nehebka). Completing the cast are Dylan Bivings, Shante Clark, Charlsey Coyle, Meghan Deeley, Mike Ferlita, Thomas Knapp, Cameron Loyal, TJ Newton, Matthew Oster, Dayna Marie Quincy and Kristina Walz.

It is directed by Amy Griffin with musical direction by Stephen Ferri and choreography by Anthony Murphy. Scenic Design by Christopher & Justin Swader, Lighting Design by Jamie Roderick, Sound Design by Jon Weston, Stage Managed by T. Rick Jones. Music by Elton John, Lyrics by Tim Rice, Book by Linda Woolverton, Robert Falls & David Henry Hwang.

For tickets, visit the theatre box office Monday-Friday (11 a.m.-6 p.m.), purchase tickets online at wppac.com or call the box office at 914-328-1600. For group sales, contact boxoffice@wppac.com.

More information can be found at https://wppac.com/shows/aida/