La Seine Musicale’s compelling exhibition Maria by Callas returns to Greek opera singer Maria Callas’ career. It says a lot about the venue that chose singer Maria Callas for its first exhibition: La Seine Musicale  aims at being a venue open to classical music with a 1,150-seat auditorium.

From September 16 to December 14, 2017, we discover private photographs and super 8 video clips, private recordings of her concerts, intimate letters and rare images of interviews of the Diva, the whole scattered across 800 sqm. Born in New York from immigrant parents, Maria Callas has been noticed for her voice and starts with minor roles at the Greek National Opera, prior to an international success.

Guided by the speaking voice of the cantatrice, we listen to interviews and many “live” recordings, some have even never been heard before, what a beautiful occasion to give the opera singer another chance to speak. She speaks about her family with reserve and benevolence, she touches us with anecdotes about her family life.

Between these intermissions, memories, private moments recorded by Grace Kelly during vacations on Aristote Onassis’ boat in the 60s, audio and video interviews of Maria Callas surrounded by acquaintances such as Alain Delon, Georges Prêtre and Valery Giscard D’Estaing. The exhibition features 5,000 pictures recounting her childhood and her stage debut, costumes from her tours as well as 300 letters and unfinished memoirs.

Settings, including those of her Parisian flat located 36 avenue Georges Mandel, promise a rediscovery of the daily life of the great Maria Callas and her fragility, at the end of her life, she's tired of singing... She even said "I'm here in Paris, getting some peace and doing nothing. I don't even want to sing for now. I think I've sung enough in my life, that's enough."

This (re)discovery of La Callas' musical repertoire leaves us speechless and reminds us about these singers, often working in the shadows, that La Seine Musicale aims at promoting. It's now a sure thing, we'll buy ticket for operas and we'll be back...

Practical information:
Maria by Callas, the exhibition 
From September 16 to December 14, 2017
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Venue: La Seine Musicale
Rates: €14.50 (full), €12 (reduced)