Nellie Melba: Queen of Song

Louise Page, Soprano
Philippa Candy, piano

Louise Page recreates the epitome of glamour, fame and notoriety as Dame Nellie Melba in this beguiling tribute to Australia's first international diva.  This costumed show has captured the public's imagination from a historical, theatrical and musical point of view, as Dame Nellie reminisces, and sings the sublime music that made her an icon.

Simply staged, it follows Melba’s life from her early days in Australia to her decision to become an opera singer in Europe and touches on the influence of her teacher Marchesi, who introduced her to society.   The dialogue is interspersed with songs and arias which were significant in Melba’s life, such as Caro nome,  Lo! Here the gentle lark, and Mi chiamano Mimi.   Madame Melba freely gives her thoughts on life in general, and recounts her debut in Brussels and success in Paris leading to her triumph at Covent Garden where she reigned for 3 decades as the “Queen of Song”, and finally her return to Australia. 

"excellently compiled and beguilingly presented…Louise Page brought her fine voice and presence to a recounting of Melba's colourful life." Canberra Times.

"an exquisite rendition of Melba's most famous arias as Mimi, Marguerite, Violetta and others." Artsound FM

Technical Specifications:

• Piano (preferably a grand/baby grand)
• Writing desk or small table
  
• Chair

Optional requirements for a more elaborate staging (to recreate an Edwardian drawing room):

• Armchair
  
• Potted ferns or flower arrangements on plants stands
• Rug
• Gramophone

http://louisepagesoprano.com.au/?page_id=5
http://www.portrait.gov.au/site/Dame_Nellie_Melba.php