Madame Céleste

Céline Céleste-Elliott (16 August 1814? Paris – 12 February 1882, Paris), known professionally as Madame Céleste, was a French dancer and actress who enjoyed great success on the London stage and during her four tours of America. She was also later involved in theatrical management. On her retirement from the stage she returned to Paris where she died in 1882.

Early life and career

As a little girl Céleste showed early talent and was enrolled at the Paris conservatory as a pupil, performing with Francois-Joseph Talma. In 1827 she made her debut at the Bowery theatre, in the opera by Auber; the part of Fenella, mute sister of the opera's hero, allowed Celeste to display her considerable talent as a mime artist, and also disguised her poor command of English. She now gave up dancing, and concentrated on acting and theater management.

In 1843 she joined Benjamin Webster in the management of the Theatre Royal, Liverpool, and later at the Adelphi in London.