Grammy-award winner J’Nai Bridges plays the mezzo-soprano soloist in “El Niño” for the Metropolitan Opera. The opera-oratorio explores the classic story of the nativity, but gives birth to a modern take.

“The opera is a beautiful recognition of Jesus's life from the point of his mother, Mary. So, it really highlights the role she had as his mother, and women in general,” Bridges explained. 

“There isn't a ton to compare it to, you know? So I feel like we have a freedom in a way to really create…There's a, there's a liberating feel,” she added.

It’s the work of American composer John Adams, who is making his return to the Met after 10 years.

“Working with John Adams, the composer, he’s a living composer,” Bridges said. “That is a very rewarding experience to work with the person who has, you know, set the tone, set the music. We can ask him questions in the present moment rather than having to wonder.”

The production combines texts in English, Spanish and Latin from biblical times today, telling the story of Mary and, more widely, about motherhood, bringing in vivid and vibrant colors. 

This production is also bringing in a diverse array of artists both on stage and behind the scenes.

“I think opera it's traditional in a way that it has been a bit closed off” Bridges said. “There are barriers that have to be broken down in everything, and that's including opera…but it's changing, you know, and the MET is really taking great steps towards that change. I'm happy to be a part of it.”

“El Niño” premieres on April 23.