Boa Constrictor Wins Met Opera Snake Auditions

The Metropolitan Opera held auditions for live snakes to appear in its revival of Mozart’s “Così fan tutte,” reimagined as a 1950s Coney Island carnival. Princess, a large yellow-peach boa constrictor, was selected for her calm demeanor and strong stage presence, while a smaller brown boa named Nala will serve as understudy. Performance artist Zoe Ziegfeld, who plays the snake charmer, evaluated the animals’ comfort with people and the audition activities. Princess will participate in rehearsals on a trial basis, with animal talent expert Nancy Novograd and her agency, All Tame Animals, supplying the snakes.