What are some younger parts in operas?

Question:

What are some younger parts in operas?

One of my lifelong dreams is to be in an opera. I would like to do this before I am 18. My choir teacher says that she thinks I could do it, though, because I have a very rich, loud voice and I know how to use my diaphragm to maximize sound without losing quality. She also says that my voice is very developed for being 14 years old. I was wondering if there are any parts in operas for young ladies (I've matured into a 16-year-old's body!).

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: Opera is full of parts for young ladies, although many of those parts would require years of practice. For example, Gilda in RIGOLETTO or Juliet in ROMEO AND JULIET could both be relatively young ladies, but Gilda especially is a demanding role (find a recording of the "Caro Nome" and you'll see what I mean). You might want to look at Menotti (THE MEDIUM or AMAHL, that perennial holiday favorite, have good female roles), or Mark Adamo's newish LITTLE WOMEN. You didn't say whether you're a lyric or mezzo soprano, or an alto for that matter--do a little browsing in Amazon or any of the online stores that will give you samples of recordings, and that might give you some further ideas. Good luck!