While the rehearsal process began in February, Leone has been preparing for the role of Radames since the Warner Theatre announced that they would be adding “Aida” to the production season.

“Once they announced the show last April, I began listening to the soundtrack almost every day. I knew that while I would have been more than happy to be a member of the ensemble, I felt like I had a chance at getting the role of Radames,” Leone said.

Radames is an Egyptian prince who is engaged to Amneris, successor to the throne. When a group of Nubian slaves capture Radames, he is introduced to the character of Aida, and a story of forbidden love unfurls. While unrequited love is something so many can relate to, Leone believes there is something more compelling about the character of Radames that audiences will be able to connect with.

“Ultimately, as you watch my character from scene to scene, he struggles with doing what people want him to do, versus following his heart. I have tried living my life under that same principle — follow your heart. I think people will find happiness if they live that way,” said Leone.

Fontana, who plays Amneris, an Egyptian princess to whom Radames is engaged, believes that her character is realistically dynamic.

“Amneris is a character who has always been valued because of her beauty, as well as the fact that she is a princess. But, as the plot unfolds, she comes to realize that she is worth much more than the material things she possesses and has so much more to offer the world,” Fontana said.

Fontana and Leone have both been participating in theater since their adolescent years and have performed in many different venues including the Thomaston Opera House in Thomaston and United Arts in Naugatuck. While neither Fontana nor Leone is a stranger to the stage, Fontana cites this to be her most humbling yet exciting theatrical experience to date.

“When I auditioned for ‘Aida’ I never thought that I would be cast as Amneris. She is a fantastic character, one that’s so much fun to work with, but I really had no expectations. I was literally floored when I received the role because there were so many other amazing women who auditioned for the part. I feel completely honored,” said Fontana.

The Warner Theatre, built in 1931 and originally described as “Connecticut’s Most Beautiful Theatre,” has a seating capacity of roughly 1,800. Leone believes the large audiences to be but one of the many components that attracted him to the Warner Theatre.

“In my opinion, the Warner Theatre is one of the best places to perform regional theater in the state. How often do you get to perform in front of houses of over 1,000 people? The sets, the costumes, the talent; all of them are first class,” said Leone.

Leone began performing alongside his father, “The Great Leone,” during his magic shows when he was very young. As his comfort level onstage increased, Leone decided to join the summer theater program in Southington in 1993 and since then has consistently participated in theater both in the Southington community, as well as throughout Connecticut.

Like Leone, Fontana’s first experience in musical theater was with the Southington Youth Summer Theater program.

“I remember working with Lynn Fusco, Marc Bovino, Leigh Radziwon, Lindsey Chute and Lisa Carroll when I first started performing. After working with them, I had caught the theater bug and I was hooked! They all really helped me to grow as an actress and a performer,” said Fontana.

Both Fontana and Leone have several years of musical and dramatic training to contribute to the talented cast of “Aida.” The production’s stage manager, Donna Williams, describes both Fontana and Leone as “phenomenal” performers. While they both enjoy musical theater as a hobby they participate in when they have spare time, Fontana gladly admitted that she often dreams of a career as a performer.

“While I know that theater will probably just remain a hobby for me, which I would be completely happy with, I am definitely not against the idea of doing it more often, or having it be a bigger part of my life in the future,” said Fontana.

The sense of unity when performing in a show, the lasting friendships forged during demanding rehearsals, and the rush of performing live in front of thousands of people is what keeps Leone and Fontana coming back for more.

“The experience is amazing. It’s absolutely breathtaking when you step on the stage, and you are able to bring your character to life, tell their story and connect with the audience,” said Fontana.

Leone struggled to pinpoint exactly how it feels when he steps onto the stage. “It’s a rush to say the least. I will never forget the first time I performed at the Warner Theatre, for about 1,200 people. As soon as I stepped on the stage, I knew that this was exactly where I wanted to be.”

“Aida” will be performed at the Warner Theatre May 3, at 2 p.m., and May 2, 8 and 9, at 8 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online, or by calling the box office at (860) 489-7180. For more information about “Aida” or the Warner Theatre, visit http://www.warnertheatre.org.