Swedish Opera singer Jenny Lind was born seven years after my novel, The Runaway Governess, is set, but I imagine my character of Isabel being much like Lind. Admired by Chopin, adored by Hans Christian Andersen, and perhaps loved by Felix Mendelsson, Jenny Lind negotiated a deal with P.T. Barnum without his ever hearing her voice. Combining a great voice with a great publicity maker sealed Jenny’s celebrity in the USA.
Lind’s contract read that she must perform at least once per week, sing at least four pieces, none operas, and also could sing for charity as long as it didn’t conflict with Barnum’s interests.
When my character, Isabel, took her chance on a singing venture, it ended in failure, but Lind’s venture was financially successful for both her and Barnum, and Lind managed to help many charitable events along the way, a win-win-win situation. The best kind.
Lind’s contract read that she must perform at least once per week, sing at least four pieces, none operas, and also could sing for charity as long as it didn’t conflict with Barnum’s interests.
When my character, Isabel, took her chance on a singing venture, it ended in failure, but Lind’s venture was financially successful for both her and Barnum, and Lind managed to help many charitable events along the way, a win-win-win situation. The best kind.
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