Kristine Opolais will step in to replace Anna Netrebko in the title role of Puccini’s Manon Lescaut at the Bayerische Staatsoper this winter. Performances take place November 15, 19, 24, 27 & 30, and December 4 & 7 – all dates are now listed as sold out. Ms. Opolais was released from her contract to sing Mimì in Puccini’s La Bohème at The Metropolitan Opera for this opportunity (Sonya Yoncheva will now sing Mimì).

This new production of Manon Lescaut also features renowned tenor Jonas Kaufmann as Des Grieux. Ms. Opolais and Mr. Kaufmann set London ablaze with their performances in the roles this past summer at the Royal Opera House:

“With Kristine Opolais in the title role and Jonas Kaufman as her lover the Chevalier des Grieux, we are treated to two of the world’s finest singers at the height of their powers not only giving magnificent performances but clearly raising each other to even greater heights than usual . . . when they are belting out Puccini’s emotional music with such commitment and perfect delivery, the result is totally gripping.”

William Hartston – Express.co.uk