Susan Rutherford is Lecturer in Performance Studies in Drama, School of Arts, Histories and Cultures at the University of Manchester.

• Introduction; 1. Sirens and songbirds; 2. Superdivas and superwomen; 3. Tutors and tuition; 4. The supporting cast; 5. Professional life; 6. The vocal and theatrical landscape; 7. The singing actress; Postscript.

Review of the hardback: 'This is a comprehensive and articulate study, intelligently constructed and stylishly written. It's also a valuable corrective to those endlessly gushing descriptions of bouquets, champagne and jewels, many of them the work of the prima donnas themselves. BBC Music Magazine

Susan Rutherford is Lecturer in Performance Studies in Drama, School of Arts, Histories and Cultures at the University of Manchester.

• Introduction; 1. Sirens and songbirds; 2. Superdivas and superwomen; 3. Tutors and tuition; 4. The supporting cast; 5. Professional life; 6. The vocal and theatrical landscape; 7. The singing actress; Postscript.

Review of the hardback: 'This is a comprehensive and articulate study, intelligently constructed and stylishly written. It's also a valuable corrective to those endlessly gushing descriptions of bouquets, champagne and jewels, many of them the work of the prima donnas themselves. BBC Music Magazine

Susan Rutherford is Lecturer in Performance Studies in Drama, School of Arts, Histories and Cultures at the University of Manchester.

• Introduction; 1. Sirens and songbirds; 2. Superdivas and superwomen; 3. Tutors and tuition; 4. The supporting cast; 5. Professional life; 6. The vocal and theatrical landscape; 7. The singing actress; Postscript.

Review of the hardback: 'This is a comprehensive and articulate study, intelligently constructed and stylishly written. It's also a valuable corrective to those endlessly gushing descriptions of bouquets, champagne and jewels, many of them the work of the prima donnas themselves. BBC Music Magazine