Hermione Gingold

Early Life

Hermione Ferdinanda Gingold was born on December 9, 1897, in England. She became renowned for her distinctive deep, drawling voice and her ability to portray sharp-tongued, eccentric characters, which made her a beloved figure in the performing arts.

Career Highlights

Gingold's career spanned several decades, during which she made significant contributions to both theatre and music. She is well-known for her performances in notable productions and recordings, including the albums "Prokofiev: Peter and the Wolf / Saint‐Saëns: Carnival of the Animals," "Façade - An Entertainment with Poems by Edith Sitwell," and "Live at the Café de Paris." Her artistic versatility allowed her to shine as both an actress and a vocalist, showcasing her talent with her voice as her primary instrument.

Legacy

Hermione Gingold's legacy continues to resonate in the arts. After her passing in 1987, her autobiography, "How to Grow Old Disgracefully," was published posthumously in 1988. Throughout her life, she authored three books filled with memoirs and anecdotes, including "The World Is Square" (1946), "My Own Unaided Work" (1952), and "Sirens Should Be Seen and Not Heard" (1963). Additionally, she wrote the play "Abracadabra" and contributed original material to various revues. In her honor, the Gingold Theatrical Group was established in New York in 2006, promoting the humanitarian ideals of playwright George Bernard Shaw, further cementing her influence in the theatrical community.