New York, USA – The Philippines has once again made its mark on the global opera stage as Michelle Mariposa, a 30-year-old mezzo-soprano from Quezon City, was named one of the winners of the 2025 Metropolitan Opera Eric and Dominique Laffont Competition. The prestigious event, held on March 16 at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York, saw Mariposa stand out among hundreds of talented young opera singers from around the world.
Mariposa is one of five winners selected from nine finalists, each receiving a $20,000 cash prize. Her victory places her among esteemed Filipino opera artists who have previously excelled in the competition, including soprano Evelyn Mandac (1966), tenor Rodell Rosel (2005), and bass Paul Corona (2006), who was one of the distinguished winners of the competition nearly two decades ago, further highlighting the rich tradition of Filipino talent in the classical music scene.
Her journey to this achievement is nothing short of inspiring. Initially on track for a medical career, Mariposa graduated summa cum laude with a degree in Psychology before deciding to pursue her passion for opera. She later obtained a Master of Music in Voice and Opera Performance at Northwestern University’s Bienen School of Music in 2023. Over the years, she has received multiple accolades, including the Lynne Cooper Harvey Foundation Award in the Musicians Club of Women 2024 Vocal Competition and the Sullivan Award from the Sullivan Foundation.
Currently a resident young artist at the Washington National Opera, Mariposa continues to refine her craft and perform on prestigious stages. She has appeared in several productions, showcasing her powerful vocals and deep emotional connection to her roles. With her latest triumph, she has joined the ranks of elite opera performers making waves internationally.
The Metropolitan Opera’s Laffont Competition, established in 1954, is a prestigious platform for discovering and nurturing young opera talents. Many of its past winners have gone on to successful careers, including world-renowned soprano Renée Fleming and baritone Eric Owens. For young singers like Mariposa, this competition serves as a launching pad for greater opportunities in the opera world.
With her victory, Mariposa not only brings honor to the Philippines but also serves as an inspiration to aspiring Filipino musicians. Her story, along with those of past winners like Corona, Mandac, and Rosel, is proof that talent, passion, and determination can pave the way to success on the global stage.
