A snake auditions for the opera

[Catherine]

Yes the snake actually auditioned for the opera, but it is a non singing part. The snake is going to be help by a human performer.
It is important that the snake and the person are a good fit. They have to like each other. The snake has to be comfortable with its role.
Princess, the sun glow Boa Constrictor had the best stage presence. She was the right size and her colour had the best visual presence for the part.
A smaller brown Boa called Nala will be her understudy.

https://www.ctvnews.ca/lifestyle/article...-the-part/

You never thought about a snake needing to audition for a part. Not all snakes would be comfortable on stage, but some would love it. Snakes are all different.
Yes she needs an understudy. All stars need an understudy. If she was starting to shed on the night  of a performance, the understudy would have to go on.
I am sure Princess will be fine and the audience will love her. She just won't be able to do autographs for her fans.