Maria, La Callas
This Friday sees the Irish release of Maria, a biopic of Maria Callas with Angelina Jolie in the title role. But Liz Nolan got there first with a 2023 radio documentary where she told the story of the singer who she first encountered as a teenage soprano. In the programme Liz explores the life and legacy of Maria Callas, the iconic Greek soprano, widely regarded as the most significant, inspiring and provocative opera star of the modern age. From a background of childhood trauma, Callas emerged as a successor to the soprani sfogati- the ‘limitless’ soprano voices of opera legend. It was Callas who led the revival of 18th century bel canto opera, and who gave indelible portrayals of Verdi and Puccini heroines. But alongside the stature of Callas the singer, there was Maria the woman, her life, characterised by unrelenting pressure, the tabloid gaze, and in the end her desolate farewell to art and to love.
‘Maria, La Callas’ follows the trajectory of the singer’s career, with contributions from acclaimed artists and vocal experts of today; as we investigate what made Callas great and how her legacy continues to enrich opera today. (First broadcast 03/12/2023)
Presenter: Liz Nolan
Producer: Peter Curtin
RTÉ lyric fm, Sunday 5th January, 6pm-7pm
