Nellie Melba as Mimi from La Bohème, c.1918

Nellie Melba as Mimi from La Bohème, c.1918

The ill-fated Mimi in La Bohème was one of Melba’s most frequently performed roles. She had particular success in the opera singing opposite Enrico Caruso as Rodolfo. While impressing audiences with his sublime tenor voice, Caruso took great delight in playing practical jokes on his co-star, especially during poignant scenes.

Australian Performing Arts Collection, Arts Centre Melbourne

Grainger Museum

c.1918

Arts Centre Melbourne

Australian Performing Arts Collection, Arts Centre Melbourne
1997.076.924 | Transferred from the Dennis Wolanski Library,
Sydney Opera House, 1997