Emily Soldene

Emily Soldene (1838-1912) was an English singer, actress, theatre manager, and writer who achieved fame during the Victorian era. Her work spanned opera bouffe, journalism, and memoir writing, with her most notable written work being her 1897 autobiography "My Theatrical and Musical Recollections." As a performer, Soldene was particularly known for her roles in Jacques Offenbach's operas during the 1870s, managing her own opera company that toured extensively throughout Britain, America, and Australia. Her theatrical career included both performing and producing shows, making her one of the few female theatre managers of her era. In her later years, Soldene turned to journalism and writing, becoming a columnist for the London Evening News and other publications. Her memoir provided valuable insights into Victorian theatrical life and became a significant historical record of the entertainment industry during that period. The transition from stage performer to writer marked Soldene as a unique figure in Victorian culture, documenting both the artistic and social aspects of nineteenth-century theatre life. Her writings offered frank observations about her contemporaries and detailed accounts of theatrical practices of the time.

There appear to be very few modern reader reviews available for Emily Soldene's works, including her memoir "My Theatrical and Musical Recollections" (1897). Her books are not listed on Goodreads or other major review sites. As a Victorian-era opera singer and writer, her works remain relatively obscure today. The few academic and historical references to her writing focus on her value as a primary source about 19th century theater and music. Readers note her insider perspective on Victorian entertainment and appreciate her first-hand accounts of theatrical life. Some find her writing style gossipy and meandering. No aggregated ratings or review scores could be found on major book platforms. Her works appear to be mainly referenced by theater historians and scholars rather than general readers. [Note: Due to the lack of substantial reader review data available, this summary is limited. The author's works do not have a significant presence on modern review platforms.]

My Theatrical and Musical Recollections (1897) A memoir detailing Soldene's experiences as an opera singer and theatrical manager in Victorian England, including accounts of notable performances and personalities of the era.

Theatrical and Musical Notes (1895) A collection of observations and critiques about the London theatre scene, focusing on productions, performers, and cultural trends of the time.

Young Mrs. Brown (1890) A novel exploring Victorian social dynamics through the story of a young married woman navigating London society.

The Theatrical Birthday Book (1880) A compilation of theatrical anecdotes and biographical notes arranged by date, serving as both a reference work and entertainment for theatre enthusiasts.