From the time Nellie stepped onto the stage, she won the hearts of many people some of whom became her close and lifelong friends.

Loyalty and help and support were more than just words to Melba as many people who worked with her and for her attested throughout the years.

Names will be added as the research is completed.

WORK IN PROGRESS

Oscar Wilde

Oscar Wilde, the famous British wit and playwright, dedicated his play A Woman of No Importance to Melba’s friend Lady de Grey. Neither Wilde nor Melba seemed interested in each other although he did say to Melba: “Ah, Madame Melba, I am the Lord of Language and you are the Queen of Son, and I suppose I shall have to write you a sonnet.” He didn’t write the sonnet but he wrote some letters Melba lost long ago and often visited her. She could tell if he had been when she was out by the cigarettes in the fire place. (Melba)

Below is the link to Jo Wing’s blog ‘Return of a Native’ about how the lives of Oscar Wilde and Dame Nellie Melba intersected. It makes fascinating reading.

See also Pêche Melba and Other Delicacies