New York-born mezzo-soprano Rise Stevens, pronounced REE-za, is renowned for her impressive career with the Metropolitan Opera, commencing in 1939 with a tour performance in Philadelphia as Octavian in Richard Strauss's "Der Rosenkavalier".
Throughout her 21-year tenure with the company, Stevens took on a diverse range of roles, solidifying her reputation as a versatile and accomplished artist. Notable performances include her portrayals of the title role in Bizet's "Carmen" and Dalila in Saint-Saens's "Samson et Dalila", as well as her interpretations of Laura in Ponchielli's "La Gioconda", Marfa in Mussorgsky's "Khovanschina", Prince Orlofsky in Johann Strauss's "Die Fledermaus", and Hansel in Humperdinck's "Hansel und Gretel".
Stevens's striking beauty and powerful vocals also led her to enjoy a successful career in film, with notable roles in "The Chocolate Soldier" opposite Nelson Eddy and "Going My Way" with Bing Crosby and Barry Fitzgerald. Additionally, she was a frequent presence on early television, appearing on programs such as "The Bell Telephone Hour" and "The Voice of Firestone", where she showcased her impressive vocal range by singing both operatic arias and popular songs.
Stevens's television credits also include one of the first telecasts from the Met, in 1954, where she performed Carmen opposite Richard Tucker.
