AUBURN — Pick your superlative for vocals, dance, costumes, drama. Community Little Theatre’s production of “Aida” has them all.

This rock opera by Elton John and Tim Rice scores a decisive hit with its imaginative depiction of ill-fated love and royal intrigue in ancient Egypt.

The classic love story of a princess slave and her Egyptian captor, based on the Verdi opera, flows as surely as the Nile to its inevitable bittersweet conclusion. Several performances stand out among a large cast that is remarkably effective throughout the production.

It’s obvious that no detail of this production received any less than full attention from director/choreographerVincent S. Ratsavong, all of which pays off in a first-class, standing ovation show. Ratsavong, an acclaimed dancer, has appeared in numerous musical roles at CLT. He is working toward a degree in theater at Dean College in Franklin, Mass.

The opening scene is in the Egyptology wing of a modern museum, where the past comes to life. The set is simple but exceptionally well done, and elements of it tie each of the many scene changes together smoothly.

Angela and Shawn Robitaille, husband and wife, have the lead roles of Aida and Ramades. Their excellent vocal talents lift the production to a high level, and they successfully meet the important dramatic demands of the story. They also played the leads in CLT’s production of “Jekyll and Hyde.”

Katie St. Pierre, CLT’s executive producer, is delightful in the role of Amneris, the Pharoah’s daughter. She and the attentive ladies of the palace perform “My Strongest Suit” with good humor and hints of a Madonna-like “Material Girl.” This scene, as well as several others, showcases the excellent costuming provided by Chiara Ferrante and several able assistants.

CLT veteran Mitchell Clyde Thomas is deliciously malicious as Zoser, chief minister and father of Ramades. His powerful voice and stage presence are in full effectiveness for his renditions of “Another Pyramid” and “Like Father Like Son.”

“Dance of the Robe” is a short but memorable number that displays the royal persona of the captured Nubian princess in a spectacular manner.

Other notable songs are “Fortune Favors the Brave,” “Elaborate Lives,” “Written in the Stars” and “Easy As Life.”

Derrick Lacasse portrays Mereb, a Nubian slave and protector of Aida. His role contains some of the humorous moments of the show, but he also gets to showcase a fine voice and dramatic talent. “Aida” is Lacasse’s fifth show with CLT. He will be remembered for important supporting roles in “Jekyll and Hyde,” “Grease,” “Footloose” and “Annie Get Your Gun.”

Megan Guynes, a 2010 theater graduate of Bates College, portrays Nehebka, a Nubian slave who sacrifices her life for the sake of her princess. Phil Vampatella, a CLT regular on production teams and occasionally on-stage, appears as Pharoah. Charles Warren’s role as Amonasro, the Nubian king and father of Aida, marks his debut on the CLT stage.

Another 28 actors, including several youngsters as young as 8, turn in equally competent performances in “Aida.”

Special commendation goes to the 10-piece pit orchestra led by music director Rebecca Caron. The Elton John score features a number of genres. The orchestra and vocalists were well-balanced in all the musical numbers.

There are several types of dance throughout “Aida,” and most of them are performed by large groups, as well as a fine solo dance by Leilani Ricardo.

Ratsavong’s choreography is handled with skill by all ensemble members, and much of it demands synchronized movement for its effectiveness.

“Aida” also features some exciting swordplay, and it is to Ratsavong’s credit that he didn’t settle for action that merely goes through the motions. The story must move to a swift conclusion, and the actors dedicated long rehearsal hours with skilled trainers. The crucial sword fight is brief and very well done.

It’s a special thrill to see a show that you know will hold a special spot in your memory for years to come. That’s what CLT accomplishes with Elton John and Tim Rice’s “Aida.”

Although “Aida” has some adult themes as well as the sword fighting, the show is suitable for children.

Remaining shows

WHAT: “Aida”

WHO: Community Little Theatre

WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 16; 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Aug. 17-18; and 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 19

WHERE: Great Falls Arts Center, 30 Academy St., Auburn