ENTERTAINMENT

Even snakes have to audition for the opera at the Met. Princess the boa constrictor got the part

PUBLISHED Sep 5, 2026, 4:57 PM ET

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Even snakes have to audition for the opera at the Met. Princess the boa constrictor got the part

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Princess, a large yellow-peach sun-glow boa constrictor, has secured the starring role of the stage snake for the Metropolitan Opera upcoming production of Mozart’s Così fan tutte. Selected during auditions held on August 28, 2026, in New York City, Princess will appear alongside carnival performer-turned-actor Zoe Ziegfeld, who portrays the snake charmer in this 1950s Coney Island carnival adaptation. A smaller brown boa constrictor named Nala was chosen as the understudy. The reptiles were supplied by Nancy Novograd of All Tame Animals, an agency specializing in live animal talent for theatrical productions. Ziegfeld evaluated the snakes based on temperament, visual presence on stage, and comfort around performers under bright lights. This staging marks Ziegfeld third time performing the snake charmer role in the production. Officials confirmed the casting following rigorous trials to ensure both animal safety and performance standards are fully met before opening night.

By Emily Rhodes | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

On August 28, 2026, snakes auditioned at the Metropolitan Opera in New York.
On August 28, 2026, Princess the boa constrictor won the starring role.
On August 28, 2026, Nala was selected as the understudy snake.
On August 28, 2026, Zoe Ziegfeld evaluated reptile demeanor during auditions.
On August 28, 2026, Nancy Novograd supplied animal talent for the production.
On September 5, 2026, media outlets widely covered the unusual opera auditions.
On September 6, 2026, animal safety protocols remained active during ongoing rehearsals.
Performers will finalize staging requirements ahead of the official opening night.
The production will welcome general audiences during the scheduled opera run.

News Intelligence

Immediate US impact: Local arts communities gain unique cultural exposure through theatrical animal casting.
Possible long-term US impact: Opera productions may increasingly feature live animal acts in staging.
Most affected groups: Metropolitan Opera audiences, New York theatergoers, and animal talent agencies.
Reader priority: Readers should prioritize verified reporting from major cultural news outlets.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 10
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 1
Neutral:: 9

Explain Framing

Left: Emphasized unique animal welfare and theatrical performance artistry details. Center: Reported factual details regarding opera auditions and animal selection objectively. Right: Highlighted cultural traditions and organizational standards within major arts institutions.