One of the great operatic sopranos of the 20th century -- via the New York Times. "La Stupenda" was best known for her key work in reviving bel canto and Baroque pieces; her Alcina was groundbreaking. She was ever-present in recordings of the 1960s, especially for her numerous collaborations with Pavarotti early in his career. Other memorable roles: Lucia, Norma, Elvira, Gilda, Marie in "La fille du regiment." This Australian dramatic coloratura was named a Dame of the British Empire.
Plus, she had a great sense of humor and didn't take herself all that seriously. I jut loved her to pieces.
Interesting, overlooked, and significant obituaries from around the world, as they happen, emphasizing the positive achievements of those who have died. Member, Society of Professional Obituary Writers.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Solomon Burke
Soul singer extraordinaire -- via Yahoo News. A member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame who was equally expert in gospel, blues, country, R & B and rock.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Rhys Isaac
Australian historian, the only to ever win a Pulitzer Prize. He won for his 1983 tome, "The Transformation of Virginia, 1740-1790."
Friday, October 8, 2010
Cheeky new website examines 'Life Before Death'
Lifebeforedeath.com tries to take the sting out of the end of things -- incudes bucket lists, "happy coffins," death on Facebook, last playlists and more . . . interesting.
Interview with Jim Sheeler, obituarist
Pulitzer Prize-winner interviewed by the Case Western Reserve University student newspaper -- Sheeler teaches there now.
Patti Cramer
Artist whose whimsical drawings of Denver life decorated many Westword magazines -- via Westword.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Roy Ward Baker
Film and television director -- via blog.saint.org. Here's the New York Times obit. A major architect of the imaginations of my generation, he made some of Hammer Film Production's best -- and campiest -- horror films. On TV, he worked on some of the best British series -- "The Avengers," "The Champions," "The Saint," "Danger UXB," "Fairly Secret Army" and "The Irish R.M." See my full salute to him at Preview Reviewer.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
William Shakespeare aka John Stanley Cave aka Billy Shake
Australian glam rock singer -- via www.undercover.fm. It's hard to run this one -- the name, alone. He did some bad things, came down in the world, suffered addiction. When it comes down to it, he was a person. May he rest in peace.
Colette Renard
Chanteuse and actress -- via Telerama.fr. A saucy singer who originated the title role in "Irma la Douce."
Gregorio Ros
Award-winning makeup artist and designer for TV, stage and film -- via Spain Broadway World. He worked on several films with Pedro Almodovar, including "Woman on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown" and "High Heels."
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Ray Picconatto aka "Tomato Man"
Gardener gave his time and expertise to others -- via the Duluth News Tribune.
Marjorie Henshaw aka Anabel Shaw
Actress worked during film noir period in postwar cinema -- via blogspot site dedicated to her, and the San Francisco Chronicle
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