Metropolitan Opera Season Launches with Mykkanen in New Opera

The Metropolitan Opera opened its new season with a vibrant production of “The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay,” featuring tenor Miles Mykkanen in a leading role. The opera, which premiered on October 1, 2023, is based on the acclaimed novel by Michael Chabon, with a libretto by Gene Scheer and music composed by Mason Bates.

Mykkanen, who initially aspired to a Broadway career, found his path redirected when he was unable to gain admission to musical theater programs. Instead, he pursued opera at the Juilliard School, a decision he described as a “weirdly a letdown” at age 18. Now at 34, Mykkanen has emerged as a prominent figure at the Met, showcasing his talent in a significant role.

In “Kavalier & Clay,” Mykkanen portrays Sammy Clay, a Jewish boy navigating life in World War II-era Brooklyn. Alongside his cousin, Czech refugee Joe Kavalier, he creates a comic strip hero inspired by Superman. Mykkanen’s upcoming performances will also include the role of the Bridegroom in another contemporary opera, Kaija Saariaho‘s “Innocence,” in spring 2024.

Mykkanen’s Journey to the Spotlight

Despite previous performances at the Met in smaller roles, Mykkanen’s portrayal of the Holy Fool in Mussorgsky’s “Boris Godunov” in 2021 garnered critical acclaim. This season, he is excited about the opportunities presented to him. “All of a sudden my schedule came together, and I thought, my God, where did this all come from,” he said.

According to Michael Heaston, the Met’s artistic administrator, Mykkanen was the ideal choice for the role of Sammy. Heaston first noticed Mykkanen while he was still a student at Juilliard and praised his ability to transition between genres effortlessly. “When I looked at Mason’s score and considered the vocal and acting demands alike, it seemed tailor-made for Miles,” Heaston stated.

Mary Birnbaum, Mykkanen’s acting instructor at Juilliard, expressed confidence in his rise to prominence. She noted, “He’s got a very American sound, and it’s appealing and lush. But also he’s bold as an actor.”

Exploring Complex Characters

Interestingly, both of Mykkanen’s roles this season involve characters who harbor significant secrets. Sammy Clay grapples with his sexuality and his feelings for actor Perry Bacon. Mykkanen, who identifies as gay, finds personal resonance in the role. “It’s been really rewarding for me to be working on this role, thinking back to my coming out process 20 years ago,” he reflected.

The opera “Innocence” addresses the aftermath of a school shooting, with the Bridegroom’s involvement gradually revealed as the story unfolds. Mykkanen appreciates the distinct musical challenges posed by both operas. He described Saariaho’s score as possessing “mathematical” precision, while he finds Bates’s work to be more accessible. “I almost feel it’s starting to carve a new genre in opera,” he noted, highlighting the innovative blend of styles.

Mykkanen hails from Ironwood, Michigan, where his parents were high school band directors. Although he has traveled extensively for his career, he remains connected to his roots. In 2019, he founded the Emberlight Arts Festival, a summer program celebrating live performance and the arts in his rural community.

When not performing, Mykkanen returns to his childhood home. “I have a room in my parents’ basement where I store my stuff,” he shared, illustrating his enduring ties to family and home.

“Mykkanen will continue to perform in “Kavalier & Clay” until October 11, 2023, alongside a talented cast that includes baritone Andrzej Filończyk as Joe and soprano Lauren Snouffer as Sarah. The production is conducted by Yannick Nézet-Séguin and directed by Bartlett Sher. As the opera season unfolds, Mykkanen’s journey reflects both personal growth and the evolving landscape of contemporary opera.