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Teresa StratasCanadian opera singer, soprano
Date of Birth: 26.05.1938
Country:  Canada |
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Biography of Teresa Stratas
Teresa Stratas, a Canadian opera singer, was born in 1938 in Toronto, Ontario. Born Anastasia Stratakis to a family of Greek immigrants, she showed musical talent from a young age. At only 13 years old, she began performing popular songs on the radio. She later enrolled in The Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto to further her musical education.
Rising Opera Star
In her early twenties, Teresa made her professional opera debut as Mimi in "La bohème" during the Toronto Opera Festival. The following year, she won the Metropolitan Opera auditions and soon graced the renowned American opera stage as Rosetta in Jules Massenet's "Manon." In 1961, her portrayal of Mimi received enthusiastic applause from the audience at Covent Garden in London, and in 1962, she captivated the famous La Scala theater in Milan as Isabella in Manuel de Falla's "L'Atlàntida." Teresa's performances were characterized by her powerful, captivating voice and genuine stage presence.
Accomplished Career
Teresa Stratas quickly became known for her lyrical-dramatic roles, performing lead parts such as Nedda, Violetta, Salome, Micaela, and Marjenka at the Metropolitan Opera. She also had the opportunity to share the stage with famous opera singers like Plácido Domingo and Luciano Pavarotti. Her repertoire included a wide range of diverse characters, showcasing her versatility as an artist. In addition to her opera performances, Teresa also had a successful career in film, starring in musical dramas such as "Salome," "Eugene Onegin," "The Bartered Bride," and "Pagliacci." However, her most iconic role was in the film adaptation of "La traviata," directed by Franco Zeffirelli, where she portrayed the fallen woman Violetta opposite Plácido Domingo. This production gained international acclaim and solidified Teresa's status as a great singer and actress.
Humanitarian Work
Throughout her career, Teresa Stratas was known for her philanthropic efforts. She participated in numerous charitable projects and was actively involved in volunteering at hospitals and orphanages worldwide. Her caring nature led her to work alongside Mother Teresa in Kolkata, India, providing assistance to terminally ill individuals. Despite temporary breaks from the stage to care for her ailing father and pursue other philanthropic endeavors, Teresa returned to performing and recording in the early 1990s.
The Diva
Teresa Stratas is often referred to as "Diva," an Italian term meaning "divine" or "beloved singer." She is admired and loved worldwide for her passionate and heartfelt performances. Like her character Violetta from "La traviata," Teresa is described as passionate, suffering, proud, and defiant. Her powerful voice and captivating stage presence have made her an icon in the world of opera.
