Hunter, Rita (1933–2001)

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Hunter, Rita (1933–2001)

English dramatic soprano. Born Rita Nellie Hunter, Aug 15, 1933, in Wallasey, England; died April 29, 2001, in Sydney, Australia; studied with Olive Lloyd, Harry Burgon, Edwin Francis, Edward Renton, Eva Turner and Redvers Llewellyn; m. John Darnley-Thomas (baritone), c. 1957 (died 1994); children: Mairwyn (b. 1968).

Joined chorus of Sadler's Wells Opera (1954), then Carl Rosa Opera (1957); when the 2 operas merged, began to get featured roles, including Senta in The Flying Dutchman (1964); sang Brünnhilde in the acclaimed production of Ring, under baton of Reginald Goodall (1970–73); sang title role in Norma at the Met in NY (1976); also appeared as Abigaille in Nabucco (1978) and Leonora in Il Trovatore (1980); sang with the Australian Opera (1981–85); remained in Australia. Made a Commander of the British Empire (1980).

See also autobiography Wait Till the Sun Shines, Nellie (1986).