Sandra Oh debuts at the Met Opera
By Ryan General
Korean Canadian actor Sandra Oh made her Metropolitan Opera debut in New York on Oct. 17, appearing as the Duchess of Krakenthorp in Gaetano Donizetti’s “La Fille du Regiment.” The 54-year-old star joined soprano Pretty Yende and tenor Lawrence Brownlee in Laurent Pelly’s French-language production. Her cameo speaking role, a comic highlight traditionally filled by a celebrity guest, earned enthusiastic applause from the opening-night audience.
- A comedic turn in a classic revival: The production marks a revival of Pelly’s 2008 staging, known for its lighthearted tone and intricate presentation of Donizetti’s 1840 opera. Oh’s role as the Duchess, a non-singing spoken cameo, has previously featured famous guests including Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Dame Kiri Te Kanawa and Kathleen Turner. The production, running through November 12, continues to draw praise for its blend of humor, vocal virtuosity and contemporary energy. OperaWire praised Oh for “delivering her monologue with incredible comic timing and impeccable finesse.”
- Oh on performing at the Met: Speaking to Classic FM, the Golden Globe–winning actress described the experience as both daunting and exhilarating. “All these unbelievable singers, and I have to look like a big sourpuss,” she said. “You can really feel the audience’s breath when you’re up there.” She credited her collaboration with the cast and production team for helping her adapt her acting to the precision and pacing of live opera performance.
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