Lucine Amara, 99, dies after decades at the Met Opera

Lucine Amara, a renowned American soprano, passed away on September 6, 2024, at her home in Queens, New York, at the age of 99. Her daughter, Evelyn La Quaif, reported that the cause of death was respiratory illness and heart failure, compounded by dementia. Amara had a remarkable career with the Metropolitan Opera, performing 748 times from 1950 to 1991, showcasing her talent in various significant roles, including Mimì in 'La Bohème' and Donna Elvira in 'Don Giovanni.' Despite her extensive contributions to opera, Amara's recognition was somewhat overshadowed by her contemporaries, attributed to her unassuming nature and consistent professionalism. She was known for her clear and supple voice, which earned her praise from critics, including a notable review in 1964 where she was described as a 'first-rank Marguerite' in Gounod's 'Faust.' In a landmark moment for her career, Amara successfully filed an age discrimination complaint against the Metropolitan Opera, which brought attention to biases within the industry. This case was widely publicized and highlighted the challenges faced by older performers in the arts. Her resilience and dedication to her craft allowed her to continue performing even after this significant legal battle. Amara's legacy is marked not only by her impressive number of performances but also by her influence on future generations of singers. Her story serves as a reminder of the importance of advocating for equality and recognition in the performing arts, particularly for those who may be overlooked due to age or other biases.