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Opera's Star is a Snake: Princess Takes the Stage
1 Oct
Summary
- A 7-year-old sunglow boa constrictor named Princess stars in the Met Opera.
- Princess is handled by a professional snake charmer from Coney Island.
- The opera featuring Princess will be livestreamed globally on October 3.
The Metropolitan Opera's new season features a most unusual leading lady: Princess, a 7-year-old sunglow boa constrictor. Weighing approximately 40 pounds, this non-venomous reptile is making her debut in the production of Mozart's "Così fan tutte." Princess was brought to the opera by Nancy Novograd of All Tame Animals and was selected by Zoe Ziegfeld, a professional snake charmer.
Ziegfeld, who works as a snake charmer at the Coney Island Circus Sideshow, convinced the Met to include a serpent in their "Così fan tutte" production, which is set in 1950s Coney Island. After auditioning several snakes, Ziegfeld chose Princess for her striking coloring and calm temperament. Ziegfeld emphasizes that Princess's comfort is paramount, and she has an understudy available if needed.
Princess's debut has been a significant success, leading to her role being expanded and warming the hearts of her human co-stars. Both Novograd and Ziegfeld hope Princess's performance will foster greater respect and understanding for snakes. Those unable to attend in person can watch Princess perform in the livestreamed "Così fan tutte" on October 3, broadcast in movie theaters worldwide.
