Every season the Metropolitan Opera has some of the greatest stars in the world. Some return for the first time in years while others are Met veterans. But there are also debuts that are unexpected or important for the house.

The 2018-19 season will undoubtedly bring six debuts that all opera goers need to see.

Nicole Car -“La Boheme”

The Australian soprano makes her anticipated Met debut after conquering the role of Mimì at the Covent Garden and Paris Opera. Both interpretations were preserved on HD and showed her versatility in the role. Audiences will not want to miss what most people call one of the greatest Mimì’s of our time.

Marie-Nicole Lemieux -“Pelléas et Mélisande”

For years, Lemieux has dominated the European stage singing in major productions including a new production of “Il Trovatore” in Salzburg and recording numerous albums. Her latest recording with Joyce DiDonato of “Les Troyens” earned her raves and more prominence in the opera world. Audiences won’t want to miss her in her native French language.

Rosa Feola – “Rigoletto”

The Italian coloratura soprano makes a highly anticipated debut performing the role of Gilda. After alluring audiences with her spotless technique and vibrant high notes, Feola gives life to one of Verdi’s tragic heroines.

Gustavo Dudamel -“Otello”

The charismatic conductor takes New York by storm in Verdi’s masterpiece. Dudamel, who is the LA Phil’s music director, has become among the most respected maestros of recent times and should be a treat to hear this coming season.

Aida Garifullina -“Don Giovanni”

There is a reason this Russian soprano made OperaWire’s Top list of 2017 last year. Her growth has been explosive, from starring in an Oscar-nominated film to making a record deal to starring in new production in Paris. Garifullina is one of those bright young stars who is set for a star-studded career and this debut is important.

Tomasz Konieczny

One of the great Wagner and Strauss specialists of our time, Konieczny made an outstanding debut in 2016 as Telramund in “Lohengrin” alongside Anna Netrebko and Piotr Beczala and has since become one of the most sought-after interpreters of the German repertoire. His Alberich should be equally as memorable as his other Wagner roles.