The Metropolitan Opera has posted record opening-day sales numbers, topping $2.08 million after its box office opened to the general public August 19, reports the Associated Press.

Met spokeswoman Sommer Hixson attributed the success to recently hired general manager Peter Gelb, vigorous marketing, the live Times Square telecast of Puccini's Madama Butterfly, and an announcement earlier this year that the Met will see the most new productions (seven) within a season since it presented nine in its inaugural 1966-67 season.

Half the seats of for the company's entire 2007-08 season of 28 operas were sold by yesterday, said Hixson. Internet sales were also up almost 50 percent from last year.

The Met's season opens September 24 with Donizetti's Lucia di Lammermoor.

By Kevin Shihoten