MARIA CALLAS
Opera star Maria Callas signed a contract to perform at the 1958 Festival of Two Worlds at Spoleto, Italy. As she was completing the arrangements she told Gian Carlo Menotti that he was actually saving money by employing her. He would not need to spend vast amounts on elaborate decor, which might distract the audience’s attention from her voice. An expensive tenor would also be unnecessary, as the crowds would flock to hear the great Callas regardless of the quality of the other performers. Menotti said, “I’ve signed up Luchino Visconti as director.” Callas said “Wonderful!” Then, after a moment’s thought she added, “But he lacks just one thing. He lacks humility.” Adapted from an account in The Little Brown Book of Anecdotes, Clifton Fadiman, Ed., page 96.
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