Maria Callas Australian Society

About MCAS

The Maria Callas Australian Society (MCAS) was founded in 2023, on the centenary of Maria Callas’s birth, by a passionate community of Greek-Australian opera enthusiasts. United by their admiration for the legendary soprano—who redefined opera with her voice, passion, and soul—they established the Society to honour her unmatched artistry and preserve her enduring legacy. With a mission to celebrate Callas’s transformative impact on the opera world, the Society inspires a love for this transcendent art form, ensuring her spirit resonates across generations, captivating hearts and inspiring souls anew.

The vision and leadership of Roma Siachos were instrumental in bringing this passionate community together. Her dedication to celebrating Callas’s legacy laid the foundation for the Society’s mission and continues to inspire its members.

Our Vision

To serve as a cultural bridge between Greece and Australia, celebrating Maria Callas's timeless legacy by inspiring future generations and fostering a lasting passion for opera. Through education, cultural exchange, and support for emerging talent, the Society envisions a vibrant opera community that embodies her spirit and preserves the art form for generations to come.

Our Mission

To honour Maria Callas’ legacy through captivating events and inspiring programs. We strive to nurture the next generation of opera talent through cultural exchanges, educational initiatives, and global partnerships. Our mission is to build a community that reflects her brilliance and celebrates the transformative power of opera.

Background and Early Years

Maria Callas, born on 2nd December 1923 in New York City and passing on 16th September 1977 in Paris, was a Greek-American soprano whose artistry redefined opera in the 20th century. Renowned for her dramatic intensity, vocal agility, and profound emotional depth, she remains one of opera’s most extraordinary and influential figures.

Young Maria Callas as a child — Maria Callas as a young child

Family and Early Influences

Born to Greek immigrant parents, Evangelia (“Litsa”) Dimitriadou Kalogeropoulos and George Kalogeropoulos, Maria’s remarkable gift for singing emerged early. Encouraged by her mother yet overshadowed by her elder sister, Maria’s early struggles with self-worth fueled her relentless drive for perfection.

Family portrait of Maria Callas with her parents and sister — Family portrait with her parents and sister

Training and Early Success

In 1937, the family moved to Athens, where Maria received formal training at the National Conservatory and later under the esteemed soprano Elvira de Hidalgo at the Athens Conservatory. Her talent flourished rapidly, and by 1942, her critically acclaimed performance as Puccini’sTosca marked the debut of a rising star.

Maria Callas performing Tosca in 1942 — Maria Callas performing Tosca, 1942

The Rise of La Divina

Maria’s return to the U.S. in 1945 was a stepping stone, but her career soared in 1947 with her performance as La Gioconda in Verona, Italy. Under the mentorship of conductor Tullio Serafin, she captivated audiences in Venice, Florence, and Rome, earning the iconic title La Davina - "The Divine One." By 1950, Callas’s voice had graced the most prestigious stages, from La Scala in Milan to opera houses in Mexico City and Buenos Aires.

Maria Callas performing in La Gioconda, 1947

Personal Challenges and Triumphs

Maria Callas’s life reflected the operatic dramas she portrayed on stage. Her tumultuous romance with Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis brought both passion and heartbreak. When Onassis married Jacqueline Kennedy, Callas was deeply wounded but channelled her emotions into unforgettable performances, captivating audiences worldwide..

Vocal Challenges and Final Performances

By the late 1950s, Callas faced vocal challenges brought on by her demanding schedule, dramatic weight loss, and the complexity of her roles. Though her once-flawless voice began to falter, particularly in the upper registers, her artistry remained unparalleled. Her final operatic performance in Tosca at Covent Garden (1964) marked the end of an era. Post-retirement, Callas starred in Medea (1969) and devoted herself to teaching, inspiring a new generation of opera talent.

Maria Callas in her final operatic performance of Tosca at Covent Garden — Final performance in Tosca at Covent Garden

Fashion & Cultural Icon

Maria Callas transcended her role as a soprano to become a cultural and fashion icon. Her refined elegance—defined by exquisite gowns and accessories—cemented her as a muse for legendary designers like Valentino and Yves Saint Laurent. Her timeless style, synonymous with the golden age of opera, continues to inspire, embodying the intersection of beauty, artistry, and sophistication.

Maria: The New Film

Maria Callas’s legacy remains as powerful as ever. In the upcoming film Maria(2024), Angelina Jolie portrays the celebrated diva, bringing her passion, struggles, and brilliance to life on screen. This highly anticipated film seeks to introduce Callas’s extraordinary story to a new generation, honouring her enduring influence on the arts.

Film poster for Maria (2024) starring Angelina Jolie

Modern Opera Performers

Maria Callas’s influence on opera is immeasurable. Her ability to channel raw emotion and her unmatched dedication have shaped the careers of modern greats like Anna Netrebko and Renée Fleming. The standard she set for artistic excellence continues to inspire performers worldwide, ensuring her legacy endures.