The Metropolitan Opera’s season opener and gala fundraising dinner last night was a night of both artistic excellence and timely commentary. The evening celebrated the premiere of “Grounded,” a new opera with music by Jeanine Tesori and libretto by George Brant, which tells the story of Jess, a fighter pilot in the Iraq war whose life takes an unexpected turn when she becomes a drone pilot. The opera, with its powerful themes of war, technology, and the human cost of conflict, resonated deeply with the audience, which included notable guests like Susan Sarandon and Edie Falco.
The role of Jess was masterfully portrayed by the up-and-coming mezzo-soprano Emily D’Angelo, who brought a captivating depth and vulnerability to the character. Her performance, coupled with the mesmerizing digital projections by Jason Thompson and Kaitlyn Pietras, created a visceral and immersive experience for the audience. The production, directed by Michael Mayer, moved swiftly and seamlessly, keeping the audience engaged from the opening notes to the final curtain.
After the performance, guests moved to the Promenade of the David H. Koch Theater for the gala dinner, where the celebratory mood was palpable. D’Angelo, still radiant in her stunning black Saint Laurent evening coat, was surrounded by well-wishers, her 30th birthday falling on the same night as her big opening night. The evening held a special significance for Tesori, whose grandfather, a composer himself, had dreamed of having his work performed at the Met. This dream, unfulfilled in his lifetime, was realized in his granddaughter’s success, a touching reminder of the power of legacy and the enduring impact of art.
Despite the opera’s heavy themes, the evening was filled with a celebratory spirit, punctuated by joyous moments like the impromptu rendition of “Happy Birthday” for D’Angelo, led by Met general manager Peter Gelb and D’Angelo’s costar, tenor Ben Bliss. The gala was a testament to the power of art to engage, inspire, and provoke thought, even amidst a politically charged climate. As Gelb noted in his opening remarks, the Metropolitan Opera remains a beacon of artistic truth, a place where audiences can find solace and inspiration in the face of a world often filled with uncertainty and division.
The evening was a resounding success, leaving the audience with a sense of hope, and a renewed appreciation for the power of art to illuminate the complexities of our world.
