Michael Corvino is also strong in the role of Amonasro, Aida's father. Bojan Knezevic, as Ramfis; and David Ward, as the Egyptian king, do exceptional jobs, as well.

As good as the featured artists are, they are well matched by the ensemble; the early scene in the Temple of Vulcan is a favorite. The dancers add interest. Staging and lighting add a great deal to the overall impact. And the orchestra, under the baton of Karen Keltner (returning for her 12th consecutive UFO season) is eminently equal to the task of bringing to life Verdi's score. The famed processional march is indeed resounding. Who needs elephants?

• "Manon Lescaut" was Puccini's breakthrough masterwork and is still highly revered and often performed in Italy. If it is no "La Boheme," it provides an interesting look at how Puccini got to some of his later, and more beloved, works.

That's not to say there isn't a lot of good stuff going on here. "Manon" may not be as familiar, but it is very well done.

It tells the story of a rather vain and fickle young woman, who turns to love rather than a convent, then turns to riches rather than love. But, in the end — and too late (this being opera, after all) — she finds that love was the better choice. The requisite death scene is as powerful and emotional as any you'll find.

Irina Rindzuner brings Manon to life, and captures well the transitions she makes. Marcos Aguiar is Des Grieux, the student who offers love that is not enough at first, but becomes the all at the end. Bojan Knezevic takes on the role of Geronte, the other point of the triangle, who loves and loses and takes his revenge.

All three bring emotion as well as beautiful, strong voices to the story. Rindzuner's arias soar, and Aguiar has no trouble keeping up with her.

Michael Corvino plays Manon's brother with flair and conviction. Alvaro Rodriguez does a nice job as Edmondo. Once again, the ensemble adds a lot of personality and style as well as musicality. And the orchestra, under Barbara Day Turner (in her 7th UFO season), turns in a top-notch performance. Scenery, lighting and costumes are effective and professional.

And if it is not music you go away singing in your head, you will find that "Manon" still offers a lot to ponder, to appreciate, to savor.

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E-mail: carma@desnews.com