AS SHE PORTRAYS MARIA CALLAS IN LATEST OSCAR-TIPPED ROLE ANGELINA JOLIE

ON TEACHING HER CHILDREN TO LOVE OPERA AND LIFE AS A BUSY WORKING MUM

- ADAM STONE

During a film career that began when she was just seven years old, Angelina Jolie’s screen presence and versatility have transformed her into one of Hollywood’s most sought-after actresses and earned her multiple awards, including an Academy Award and three Golden Globes.

But in her latest role, the star reveals yet another talent as she plays world-famous opera singer Maria Callas in a new biopic.

Angelina, 49, spent months training so she could sing for real in Pablo Larraín’s drama Maria – and, as she reveals in this interview, her teacher was none other than the late superstar soprano herself.

“I listened to her; she actually taught,” Angelina says. “There are audio recordings of her teaching. So, I got very lucky because the best way in was to be taught by Maria.

“My first time s inging, I remember being so nervous. My sons were there and they helped block the door so that nobody else was coming in. I was shaking – I was frightened to live up to her because I had not sung in public before.

“The only way for me to know I did a good enough job would be to ask Maria Callas fans and those who love opera.

“My fear would be to disappoint them. I really came to care for her; I didn’t want to do a disservice to this woman.”