Callas Unica (English, French and Italian Edition)

There is no dearth of superlatives to describe Maria Callas, undoubtedly one of the greatest legends of the twentieth century. Widely regarded as one of the foremost soprano voices of our time, Maria Callas was praised for more than just her operatic gift. She was an accomplished actress who drew heavily on the work of Sarah Bernhardt and a world-renowned beauty romantically involved with one of the wealthiest men of her generation. Yet her life was filled with tragedy and ended in her untimely death at the age of 53. Callas Unica is a dramatic photographic portrait of the world-renowned diva. Author Jean-Jacques Hanine-Rousel traces the singer’s life and career from the early 1940’s until her death in 1977. The book contains a collection of nearly 400 photographs the author compiled. Some are drawn from the archives of the leading opera companies where Callas performed; many are from the private collections of family and friends. The organization of the photos is predominately chronological. They include images of Callas in her greatest roles as well as in everyday settings. Together, they provide a magnificent study of one of history’s greatest operatic performers, both onstage and off. A 14-page biography and commentaries by performers close to Callas provide additional insights into the singer’s life. The text has been translated so it can be read in English, Italian, or its original French. The result is a tribute that makes the diva’s unusual beauty and dramatic presence accessible to admirers around the world.