Gay men use the word "diva" too loosely these days. There really should be more stringent standards for that word.
Greek-born soprano Maria Callas (1923-1977) , known as La Divina, endured tribulations that would have broken most of the contemporary dance-club "divas" in half.
From the bel canto literature of Bellini and Donizetti to the dramatic operas of Verdi to the extravagant masterworks of Wagner, Callas did it all. And she did it with style, even after being dumped by Aristotle Onassis in 1968 so that he could marry Jacqueline Kennedy. (Rumor has it that they continued their relationship through a clandestine affair, but my delicate nature will not allow me to comment further.)
Check out this video of La Divina singing the immortal aria "Casta diva" from Bellini's opera Norma. Never mind the aging opera chorus behind her... they get lost at their first entrance (probably because they were mesmerized by Callas' artistry). I love how Callas' tuning is slightly sharp... helps her carry over the orchestra. Her facial expression throughout the aria shows her fantastic dramatic ability... a mastery of operatic acting that continues to influence the opera singers of today.
If ever there was a Diva...
