"On Broadway, Sarah Hyland is set to star in 'Just in Time', while Jane Krakowski takes on the role in 'Oh, Mary!', with more casting updates"

The Metropolitan Opera, a renowned institution in the world of opera, has announced a significant new partnership with Saudi Arabia's Royal Diriyah Opera House. This move comes amidst the opera company's efforts to revive its sluggish ticket sales, shrinking donor support, and operating deficits following the pandemic.

The partnership, set to last for five years starting with the venue's completion, is intended as a "cultural exchange between countries" and will provide new avenues of significant support for the Met. The Met will become the resident winter company at the Royal Diriyah Opera House, performing fully staged operas and concerts over three-week periods.

The announcement is likely to stir controversy due to Saudi Arabia's human rights record and restrictions on free expression. Many may note the contrast between the Met's decision to cut ties with soprano Anna Netrebko over her perceived closeness to Russian President Vladimir Putin and its willingness to embrace this high-profile partnership with Saudi Arabia. The Met continues to defend itself against Netrebko's lawsuit, in which she alleges discrimination.

Meanwhile, on the Broadway front, there are several exciting developments. Jane Krakowski, a Tony winner for "Nine" and a nominee for "She Loves Me," will star as Mary Todd Lincoln in "Oh, Mary!" for an eight-week run beginning Oct. 14. Hannah Solow will cover the role from Sept. 30 to Oct. 12, while Jinkx Monsoon will depart from the production on Sept. 28. The actress who will play Mary Todd Lincoln from Oct. 14 onwards is not yet confirmed.

In another Broadway production, "Just in Time," Sarah Hyland will join the cast as singer Connie Francis, starting October 8. Gracie Lawrence will depart from the production after the Oct. 5 performance. The musical features songs like "Beyond the Sea," "Dream Lover," and "Mack the Knife," and stars Jonathan Groff as Bobby Darin. Sadie Dickerson will make her Broadway debut as Sandra Dee in "Just in Time" on Sept. 16.

The Met's partnership with Saudi Arabia also includes training aspiring Saudi artists and technicians and collaborating on commissioning a new opera. Tickets for "Just in Time" are on sale through Jan. 11, 2026. The Broadway comedy "Oh, Mary!" tickets are not yet available for sale.

"On Broadway, Sarah Hyland is set to star in 'Just in Time', while Jane Krakowski takes on the role in 'Oh, Mary!', with more casting updates"