Angel Blue Takes on Verdi’s ‘Aida’ in a Landmark Metropolitan Opera Production

If she has the voice of an angel and the presence to match, she must be Angel—Angel Blue, that is.

The celebrated American soprano is making history as she stars in the Metropolitan Opera’s first new production of Verdi’s Aida in 36 years. At 40 years old, Blue has become a staple at the Met since her 2017 debut as Mimi in Puccini’s La Bohème, appearing in multiple opening-night performances. This season, she also played the lead in Osvaldo Golijov’s Ainadamar.

A Role of Monumental Proportions

Taking on Aida is a milestone in any soprano’s career. The role of the enslaved Ethiopian princess caught between love and duty requires immense vocal power, agility, and expressive depth. For a Black soprano at the Met, the role also carries historical significance—Leontyne Price set a gold standard for Aida from her debut in 1961 until her retirement in 1985.

“I don’t see myself as the next Leontyne Price, but she has always been a role model for me,” Blue shared after rehearsals. “When I think of all who came before, I feel inspired rather than intimidated. It’s my turn now, and I owe it to them.”

A Star-Studded Production

The highly anticipated Aida opens on New Year’s Eve in a sold-out performance led by Met music director Yannick Nézet-Séguin. Blue stars alongside tenor Piotr Beczala as Radames, mezzo-soprano Judit Kutasi as Amneris, and baritone Quinn Kelsey as Amonasro. The production, directed by Michael Mayer, will be broadcast live in HD to theaters worldwide on January 25.

Blue’s connection to Aida runs deep. Though she never witnessed Price’s legendary performances live, her father—a classically trained gospel singer and pastor—was a devoted fan. According to family lore, he proclaimed at Blue’s birth that she would be “the next Leontyne Price.”

“My dad adored her voice,” Blue recalled. “It was as if he sensed my destiny the moment I was born.”

A Journey of Dedication and Growth

Raised in Southern California as one of five siblings, Blue honed her vocal talents in church and high school, financing her music education through beauty pageant winnings. She was first captivated by opera at age four when her father took her to a concert performance of Puccini’s Turandot while visiting family in Cleveland.

Her Aida journey began with a concert performance in Detroit, followed by her first fully staged production at London’s Royal Opera House last year. Critics praised her vocal warmth and emotional depth, though some noted she was still settling into the role.

Mark Elder, who conducted her London Aida, admired her perseverance. “She wasn’t very experienced in the part at first, but she worked tirelessly. By opening night, she had fully embraced the role, and I believe she’ll continue to refine it for years to come.”

Capturing Aida’s Inner Turmoil

Director Michael Mayer highlighted Blue’s ability to portray Aida’s intense inner conflicts. “Angel has an incredible gift—she doesn’t act out emotions; she embodies them. She trusts Verdi’s music to tell the story.”

Despite her gentle demeanor, Mayer said, Blue’s voice is commanding. “She’s a warm, kind person, but when she sings, it’s simply breathtaking.”

A Poignant Opening Night

New Year’s Eve will be an emotional evening for Blue, as it marks the 18th anniversary of her father’s passing. Her mother and brother will be in attendance, while the rest of her family will see a later performance. She’s determined to make them proud.

“I feel like a boxer in the corner of the ring with gloves that say ‘AIDA,’” she said with a smile. “I have my team supporting me, telling me, ‘Angel, you’ve got this!’”

With her soaring voice and unwavering dedication, Angel Blue is ready to leave her own indelible mark on Aida and Metropolitan Opera history.

Source: AP News