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Denise Graves Bids Farewell After 38-Year Opera Legacy

1/26/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Denyce Graves, the Metropolitan Opera mezzo-soprano, gave her final performance on January 26, 2026, in the 158th performance of Porgy and Bess.
She received a plaque recognizing her as one of opera's outstanding artists.
Graves faced a thyroid imbalance that nearly ended her singing career at age 24.
She built a mezzo-soprano career spanning 38 years.
Audience applause reflected her impact as she closed this journey.

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Story summary

Denyce Graves, the Metropolitan Opera mezzo-soprano, gave her final performance on January 26, 2026, in the 158th performance of Porgy and Bess.
She received a plaque recognizing her as one of opera's outstanding artists.
Graves faced a thyroid imbalance that nearly ended her singing career at age 24.
She built a mezzo-soprano career spanning 38 years.
Audience applause reflected her impact as she closed this journey.