Snakes auditioned for a role in the Metropolitan Opera’s “Così fan tutte” in New York, where performer Zoe Ziegfeld tested their comfort on stage. A boa constrictor named Princess won the part, with Nala as her understudy.
Animal talent expert Nancy Novograd poses for a portrait during auditions to select a snake for a part in an adaptation of Mozart’s “Così fan tutte” on Friday, Aug. 28, 2026. AP Photo/Andres KudackiPerformance artist Zoe Ziegfeld, who plays the part of a snake charmer, handles one of the auditioning snakes. AP Photo/Andres KudackiZiegfeld sits with a snake wrapped around her neck and arms. AP Photo/Andres KudackiOne of the auditioning snakes for the Metropolitan Opera. AP Photo/Andres KudackiNovograd, right, interacts with Ziegfeld while holding one of the snakes. AP Photo/Andres KudackiA snake sticking out its tongue during auditions. AP Photo/Andres Kudacki