Tenor Michael Hendrick (89C) made an unexpected but triumphant debut at the Metropolitan Opera March 15 when he stepped in after the first act on opening night for the ailing lead tenor in Richard Strauss’ 1928 opera, Die Ägyptische Helena.

In a March 17 review, the New York Times had this to say about the Berry alumnus’ performance: “He was replaced by MichaelHendrick, who had sung the dress rehearsal on Monday and was all set to go. Making your Met debut in such tense circumstances has to be intimidating. Still, Mr. Hendrick saved the day, singing with husky sound and energy.”

Left: Michael Hendrick in a previous role as Laca in Jenufa.

http://www.berry.edu/Magazine/Spring07/News%20of%20Note.pdf