Every year, one superstar rises above the rest to become one the centerpieces of a particular Teatro alla Scala season.

This season, OperaWire pointed out five major artists that are poised to make high profile debuts or returns or headline major productions that are sure to see their profiles surge.

Saioa Herenandez

The Spanish soprano is set to make her Teatro alla Scala debut as well as her role debut as Odabella in “Attila.” Hailing from Madrid, the soprano has built up a formidable resume in Italy’s greatest theaters singing a number of Italian operas. This will be her biggest assignment to date.

Here is a recording of Hernandez as “Lucia di Lammermoor.”

Ambrogio Maestri 

The Italian baritone has been recognized as one of the greatest “Falstaff” interpreters of his time and has traveled the world singing the role. Next season however, the baritone will get a chance to  showcase himself in new repertoire. He will headline a double bill in Salieri’s “Prima la musica poi le parole” and Puccini’s “Gianni Schicchi,” a role he has dominated throughout. He will also sing his signature Dulcamara in a revival of “L’Elisir d’Amore.”

Fabio Sartori 

For years Sartori has been headlining productions at La Scala and gaining praise. But this season he gets to showcase his talents in two high profile new productions. First he headlines opening night as Forresto in “Attila” and later he sings the lead role in “I Masnadieri” in David McVicar’s new production.

Cecilia Bartoli 

The Italian mezzo-soprano returns to La Scala in “Giulio Cesare” after last appearing in a concert in 2012. The mezzo, who has been a big advocate for baroque opera, begins her three-year baroque project with the company. She headlines a new production with an all-star cast that will be unmissable.

Here is a clip from her “Giulio Cesare” recording.

Thomas Hampson 

After making his debut in the 2016-17 season, Hampson returns as Altair in Strauss’ “Die ägyptische Helena.” The new role will continue a line of role debuts that the American baritone will showcase next season, including two world premieres. It will also be great to see Hampson return to the German repertoire.