Madame Vestris

Lucia Bartolozzo--the woman who would become Madame Vestris--was born March 3, 1797, in London. The family was artistic and musical (her German mother was a pianist and her Italian father an art dealer and artist), and from a young age Lucia was recognized for her skill and rich contralto voice. When she was 16 years old, she married French ballet dancer Auguste Armand Vestris. However, the relationship was short-lived, as he deserted her only four years later. Still, she retained the stage and professional name of “Madame Vestris” throughout her life and career.

In 1838, Vestris was popular and a well-respected figure on the London stage, and independently wealthy, although not given as much business freedom as her male contemporaries. She remarried that year, to actor Charles James Mathews. Together, the couple managed theatres in London (including Covent Garden and Lyceum), and went on an American tour. These were modestly successful ventures. In the late 1940s, Vestris largely retired from appearing onstage; while she had no children of her own, she became the guardian of her late sister’s children. Her last performance was for a benefit for her husband, an adaptation La Joie fait peur by Madame de Girardin entitled Sunshine Through the Clouds. A few years later, on August 8, 1856, Madame Vestris died at her London home.

Key Dates & Events

• 1813 - At only 16 years old, Madame Vestris marries a French dancer (who would later leave her for another woman)
• 1815 - Madame Vestris performs her first leading role
• 1820 - Kicking off her career of "breeches roles," Madame Vestris plays the male role of Don Giovanni
• 1831 - Madame Vestris leases the Olympic Theatre and becomes the first female theatre "owner" and manager in London
• 1838 - Madame Vestris marries Charles James Mathews, and the two are business partners in managing several London theatres and touring in the United States
• 1854 - Madame Vestris retires from theatre