Susannah Maria Arne

Susannah Maria Arne (1714-1766) was a celebrated English singer and actress, the sister of the composer, Thomas Arne.

Related Topics:
1714 - 1766 - English - Singer - Actress - Thomas Arne

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

She was born in London, and made her debut in her brother's first opera, Rosamund, in 1733. In 1734, she married Theophilus Cibber, the son of playwright Colley Cibber, and became known as "Mrs Cibber" for professional purposes. A contralto, she was admired by Handel, who wrote parts specially for her in The Messiah and Samson. She also acted at Drury Lane, the theatre managed by her father-in-law, where she appeared with David Garrick. She had a particularly high reputation for tragic acting which Garrick, also a close friend, enhanced by working with her to erode her somewhat monotonous delivery. "Then tragedy dies with her", he is said to have exclaimed upon hearing of her death.

Related Topics:
London - Opera - 1733 - 1734 - Theophilus Cibber - Colley Cibber - Contralto - Handel - The Messiah - Samson - Drury Lane - David Garrick

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~