Pollak, Anna (1912–1996)

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Pollak, Anna (1912–1996)

English mezzo-soprano. Born on May 1, 1912, in Manchester, England; died on November 28, 1996, in Hythe, Kent, England; studied with Hyslop and, in London, with Cross.

A leading singer at the Sadler's Wells Opera in London during the 1940s and 1950s, Anna Pollak first worked in provincial repertory troupes, performing in revues and musicals. She made her debut at Sadler's Wells in 1945, as Dorabella in Mozart's Cosi fan Tutte. It was the first time she had ever sung an operatic role. Soon, she was the company's leading soprano. Known as a versatile, stylish actress, Pollak appeared as Cherubino, Fatima, Orlovsky, and Siebel. She created the role of Bianca in Rape of Lucretia as well as Lady Nelson in Berkeley's Nelson and the title role in his Ruth.