1955day.year
Contralto Marian Anderson becomes the first person of color to perform at the Metropolitan Opera in Giuseppe Verdi's Un ballo in maschera.
Marian Anderson becomes the first person of color to perform at the Metropolitan Opera in New York.
On January 7, 1955, contralto Marian Anderson broke racial barriers by debuting at the Metropolitan Opera in Verdi's Un ballo in maschera.
Her appointment followed years of advocacy for civil rights and equality in the performing arts.
Anderson's rich voice and dignified presence earned her praise from critics and audiences alike.
Her performance symbolized a significant step toward integration in American cultural institutions.
The event inspired future generations of artists of color to pursue opportunities in major opera houses.
Anderson's legacy endures as a testament to talent overcoming societal prejudice.
1955
Marian Anderson
Metropolitan Opera
Giuseppe Verdi
Un ballo in maschera