The Metropolitan Opera House buzzed with anticipation on Sunday evening as eager patrons craned their necks from ornate balconies, hoping to catch a glimpse of the pre-curtain festivities. This was the illustrious cocktail hour, where celebrities mingled, sipped champagne, savored caviar-topped canapés, and gracefully navigated the crowded ballroom, careful not to snag a gown.
Dressed in their finest black-tie attire, prominent figures like Senator Chuck Schumer, Christine Baranski, Laverne Cox, John Turturro, and B.J. Novak sparkled beneath the dazzling chandeliers of Lincoln Center. They were all there to mark the Metropolitan Opera’s grand opening of its new season.
Actor and comedian B.J. Novak perfectly encapsulated the atmosphere, quipping, ‘It’s like a Bugs Bunny cartoon of something fancy to do in New York.’
Among the striking attendees were Davóne Tines, elegantly captured in a black tank top, and a playful moment between Lorraine Toussaint and Ben Ahlers taking a selfie. Christine Baranski was also seen on the red carpet, engaging in an interview.
Just weeks prior, the Metropolitan Opera had made headlines with a significant deal: a lucrative agreement with Saudi Arabia to host the opera for three weeks each winter. This partnership is poised to inject over $100 million into the Met, helping to ease its financial challenges. Despite some public discussion and criticism surrounding the announcement, the opening night itself radiated high spirits and excitement.
The season officially began with ‘The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay,’ an opera composed by Mason Bates. This new work is an adaptation of Michael Chabon’s acclaimed novel, which tells the compelling story of two Jewish cousins who create comics amidst the escalating shadows of World War II. The star-studded evening was also a successful fundraiser, collecting an impressive $4.3 million.
Speaking to the packed house before the performance began, Peter Gelb, the Metropolitan Opera’s general manager, powerfully underscored the organization’s unwavering dedication to its artists.
“At the Met, we’re proudly standing for freedom of artistic expression,” Gelb declared. He then introduced Senator Schumer, who echoed similar sentiments on freedom of speech and artistic expression, and was met with a varied reception of both cheers and jeers from the audience.
The opening night also saw several notable figures. The season’s inaugural performance of ‘The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay,’ based on Michael Chabon’s novel, was highlighted with a captivating image of attendees. Sophia Bush, Neil Patrick Harris, and Ashlyn Harris were seen sharing a warm greeting, while a dynamic video clip captured Ann McCaughan and Raquel Chevremont descending the red-carpeted stairs. Gina Gershon made an appearance, and Haus of Shmizzay caught attention in a tuxedo paired with an elaborate jeweled mask. B.J. Novak was spotted in lively conversation at a dinner table.
The post-performance celebrations continued with a grand dinner at David Geffen Hall, bustling with attendees. Among the notable faces were John Turturro, engrossed in conversation, and Laverne Cox, radiant in a rose-adorned red vest. Indeed, the evening successfully raised an impressive $4.3 million dollars.