Technically, the world of opera isn’t a stranger to gender-bending roles with sopranos and mezzos in so-called “trouser” or “pants” roles—but nothing quite like this. 

SFCM’s Chair of Voice and Opera Studies Catherine Cook performed with drag queen and celebrated reality TV star (and classically trained singer), Monét X Change in Daughter of the Regiment recently at Opera Colorado in Denver. Monét is perhaps best known for competing and winning on several seasons of the popular reality show RuPaul’s Drag Race.

Catherine Cook and Monét X Change perform with the cast.

“I think this is an incredible opportunity for these two worlds to unite: Drag and opera are the perfect match in my opinion!” Cook said. Both art forms often use dramatic moments, fabulous costumes, and comedic timing to tell a story. The experience of working with a reality TV celebrity was a first for Cook, who was already a fan of the show. “I was fangirling at the beginning of the rehearsal process!” Cook added. “Monét was an absolute joy to work with and such an amazing artist and human, as was the rest of the cast and team!”

Daughter of the Regiment is a light-hearted romantic-comedy tale about how the most important battle is the one for the heart. Cook portrayed the Marquise of Birkenfeld, the heroine Marie’s long-lost aunt and an affluent lady with a royal title. She had several scenes with Monét, who portrayed the Duchess of Krakenthorp, the dreaded mother of the suitor the Marquise has chosen for Marie, creating some special moments for the two to clash. Opera Colorado reimagined the role for Monét, allowing for some especially comedic moments. “A catfight ensued between us where I pulled off her wig—I felt it was a drag race moment!” Cook added. 

This performance was made even more special for Cook, who shared the stage with two SFCM recent voice graduates, Ashley Troester and Alex Granito.

Catherine Cook with SFCM graduates Alex Granito and Ashley Troester.

This is the fifth time Cook has performed with Opera Colorado. She traveled home to San Francisco during the rehearsal process to continue to work with her studio of students. Cook, a mezzo-soprano, has taught at SFCM since 2006 and has continued to perform, excelling in a wide range of roles with leading opera companies throughout the United States.

For Cook, mixing the audiences of drag and opera will only lead to more opportunities for performances and growing both art forms. “I hope we can continue to merge opera and drag and this can lead to more collaboration in the future! I was so grateful to be part of this production with Monét and the entire team at Opera Colorado, and thankful to my students and SFCM for their support!” Cook said. 

Learn more about studying Voice / Opera Studies or  Opera and Musical Theatre at SFCM.