The Magic Flute may be about a fairy-tale quest, but it's a real-life dream come true for one SFCM student. 

Chea Kang will be covering the role of Papagena in the San Francisco Opera's upcoming series of performances. "I’m very excited to be a part of the show because it was one of my dream productions to be involved in," Kang said. "It is a very creative production, and the visual aspect of the show really catches the eye of the audience." 

This is not Kang's first time working with the SF Opera. In 2022 she successfully auditioned for Dialogue of the Carmelites. "They offered for me to play Sister Catherine in the show. It was such a priceless experience and I am very grateful they have asked me back for The Magic Flute," she said. Kang is currently earning her Artist Diploma at SFCM.

Chea Kang at the SF Opera's War Memorail Opera House.

For her teacher, César Ulloa, hearing of his student's upcoming role at SF Opera was thrilling. "It has been a delight working with Chea these last three years and I look forward to continuing our work together," Ulloa said. "She has been a gift to the SFCM community and to my voice studio!"

While Kang is the only current student appearing in upcoming productions at SF Opera, she will be seeing some familiar faces. SFCM graduates Alexandra Sanchez ('22) and Mariya Kaganskaya ('16) are appearing in various roles throughout the upcoming season. Stella Hannock ('23) is a member of the SFO's chorus, and this year, recent grad Lindsay Martin and current student Nathan Bryon were accepted into the Opera's prestigious Merola training program. "I’m so thrilled that our students are involved in the upcoming season! It is truly a testament to the talent of our students and our continued collaboration with San Francisco Opera," said Catherine Cook, Chair of the Voice department. 

Kang performs in "Gianni Schicchi" at SFCM.

The Magic Flute runs May 30 through June 30, 2024 at the San Francisco Opera. Kang is looking forward to getting started. "I’m very excited to work this role with César who always guides me technically and artistically through preparing roles," she said.

With this role, Kang is excited to take on a new challenge. "Papagena is a brilliant and charming character," Kang said. In addition to her work at SF Opera she has portrayed Cleopatra in Giulio Cesare and Lauretta in Gianni Schicchi at the Conservatory. "Studying at SFCM for my Master’s degree and Artist Diploma allowed me to have chances to play various roles that have different personalities and colors," Kang continued. "Having this experience gives me perspective to build a character whether in a song or in an opera, and really allows me to explore diverse ways to shape the personalities."

Learn more about studying Voice at SFCM.