Soubrette is a French voice classification term assigned to women who often play young, physically active operatic roles. Most soubrettes have a bit warmer vocal color and are comfortable singing throughout the soprano range. Their upper extension is not quite as high or “shiny” as that of a coloratura, but they often have a richer timbre in their middle and upper middle voice. Soubrettes are often petite in stature and have a “perky” disposition! Maids such as Despina and Adele are often cast with soubrettes. Some soubrettes also sing roles such as Susanna (in The Marriage of Figaro), Zerlina, Ännchen (Der Freischütz), and even Norina.