– Wilhelmenia Wiggins Fernandez
– Diva of ‘Diva’ dies at 75
– Fernandez, Diva of ‘Diva,’ dies at 75
– Wilhelmenia Wiggins Fernandez dies at 75
– Diva Wilhelmenia Wiggins Fernandez passes away at 75.
Wilhelmenia Wiggins Fernandez, the Diva of ‘Diva,’ Passes Away at 75
Wilhelmenia Wiggins Fernandez, a renowned soprano from South Philadelphia, has sadly passed away at the age of 75. She gained fame not only for her performances in European opera houses but also for her role as the diva in the stylish 1981 French thriller “Diva.” She passed away on February 2 at her home in Lexington, Ky. The cause of her death was cancer, as confirmed by her daughter, Sheena M. Fernandez.
A Talented Soprano with a Rich Career
Born on January 5, 1949, in Philadelphia, Wilhelmenia Wiggins showed her vocal talents from a young age. She received formal training at the Academy of Vocal Arts in Philadelphia and later attended the Juilliard School in New York City. In the 1970s, she made a name for herself as Bess in the Houston Grand Opera’s international production of Gershwin’s “Porgy and Bess.”
During the production’s European tour, she caught the attention of Rolf Liebermann, the renowned impresario who revived the Paris Opera. Impressed by her talent, Liebermann offered her a two-year contract. It was during a performance of “La Bohème” in 1980 that she caught the eye of French director Jean-Jacques Beineix, who cast her as the diva in his upcoming film “Diva.”
The Success of “Diva”
“Diva” was a groundbreaking film that became a cult favorite. It showcased the cinéma du look movement, known for its stylish and disaffected youth in 1980s and ’90s France. In the film, Wilhelmenia Wiggins Fernandez’s character, Cynthia Hawkins, captivates the audience with her powerful performances.
Despite being her only film role, Fernandez’s portrayal of the diva brought exposure to opera and classical music for a wider audience. As a result, she noticed a younger demographic attending her recitals and concerts, thanks to the popularity of “Diva.”
A Career on the Operatic Stage
While “Diva” brought her international fame, Wilhelmenia Wiggins Fernandez continued to pursue her career on the operatic stage. She made her New York City Opera debut in 1982, once again portraying Musetta in “La Bohème.” She also performed in various roles throughout Europe, including the title role in Verdi’s “Aida,” which she performed in the temples of Luxor in Egypt.
In 1992, Fernandez’s talent was recognized with a Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actress in a Musical for her role as Carmen in “Carmen Jones.”
A Life Well-Lived
Wilhelmenia Wiggins Fernandez’s talent and dedication to her craft were evident throughout her life. Despite facing challenges as a Black performer in the Eurocentric world of opera, she persevered and left a lasting impact on the industry.
Aside from her musical accomplishments, Fernandez also pursued her education later in life. She earned a bachelor’s degree in voice from the University of Kentucky in 2007 and a master’s degree in education from Georgetown College. She then became a special-education teacher in a Lexington elementary school.
Wilhelmenia Wiggins Fernandez will be remembered as a remarkable soprano whose performances touched the hearts of many. Her legacy as the diva in “Diva” will continue to inspire future generations of opera lovers.
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1. Wilhelmenia Wiggins Fernandez, the Diva of ‘Diva,’ Dies at 75 – DNyuz, exclude numbers and the word keyword
2. Wilhelmenia Wiggins Fernandez, the Diva of ‘Diva,’ Dies at – DNyuz, exclude numbers and the word keyword.
