On this day, Jan. 7, 1955, Marian Anderson made her Metropolitan Opera debut, becoming the first African American to sing a leading role with the company.
Courtesy
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Metropolitan Opera Archives
According to the Met’s website, Black performers had previously only appeared in Met performances when extra dancers were needed or as part of the chorus.
General Manager Rudolf Bing hired the first Black permanent member of the company, prima ballerina Janet Collins.
Courtesy
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Metropolitan Opera Archives
The Met says Bing was also responsible for the “change of attitude toward African American artists that led to Anderson’s debut and paved the way for other Black artists to join the Met’s roster of performers.”
