More Metropolitan Opera Cast Changes

A busy week of withdrawals and changes in Lincoln Center! My commentary is in [square brackets].

James Morris and Michael Volle will share the role of Hans Sachs in Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg, replacing Johan Reuter, who has decided not to add the role to his repertory. Morris will sing the role on December 2, 6, 17, 20, and 23, and Volle will sing it on December 9 and 13 (matinee). The December 13 performance will be transmitted live as part of the Met’s Live in HD series, which now reaches more than 2,000 movie theaters in 69 countries around the world. [My advice: Get a ticket to see Volle. Morris was sounding mighty dry already when he sang Sachs more than 10 years ago in SF.]

 American soprano Tamara Wilson will make her Met debut in the title role of Verdi’s Aida this season, replacing Latonia Moore, who has withdrawn due to pregnancy. Wilson will sing the role on December 26, 29, January 5, and January 10 matinee. [I saw Tamara Wilson as Miss Jessel in Turn of the Screw a few years ago and she was terrific. Beautiful voice, and a big one. I am suddenly a little more interested in this Aida run than I otherwise would be.] Aleksandra Kurzak will sing Gretel in the Met’s English-language holiday presentation of Hansel and Gretel onDecember 18, 23, 27, and 30, replacing Christine Schäfer, who has decided to take a sabbatical from performing this season. As previously scheduled, Andriana Chuchman will sing the role on January 8; casting for January 1 and 3 will be announced at a later date.