Adelaide Kemble

Adelaide Kemble Sartoris (13 February 1815 – 4 August 1879) was an English opera singer active during the Victorian era. She was a member of the Kemble family of actors, being the daughter of actor Charles Kemble and Maria Theresa Kemble. She was also the younger sister of Fanny Kemble, a well-known actress and anti-slavery activist.

Kemble studied in London under John Braham, an English tenor, and furthered her vocal training in Italy with Giuditta Pasta, a renowned soprano of the time. She made her operatic debut on the London stage on 2 November 1841 in the role of Norma. Her performing career was brief but notable.

In 1843, she married Edward John Sartoris and subsequently retired from the stage. The couple resided in Belgravia, London, where they hosted notable figures such as Frederic Chopin, who made his London debut during her time as hostess in 1849; a plaque commemorates this event. Adelaide Sartoris authored a humorous story titled "A Week in a French Country House" in 1867, along with other less distinguished writings.

An anecdote from her later years involves a concert performance by Giuditta Pasta, during which Pasta, whose vocal abilities had declined, was asked by fellow singer Pauline Viardot for her opinion of Pasta's voice. Viardot replied, "Ah! It is a ruin, but so is Leonardo's Last Supper."

Her family included her son, Algernon Charles Frederick Sartoris, who became a singer. He married Nellie Grant, the daughter of Ulysses S. Grant, the American general and president, on 21 May 1874 in the White House East Room. Their son, Algernon Edward Sartoris, married the granddaughter of Sir Charles Hallé, a conductor.

The artist Frederic Leighton, known for the painting Flaming June and for serving as president of the Royal Academy of Arts from 1878 until his death in 1895, was introduced to Sartoris's social circle in Rome. He was influenced by her, particularly in social and musical contexts. Leighton’s social soirées, called the "Leighton Musics," were inspired by her influence and were held in his home in Kensington, now known as Leighton House and open to the public. Sartoris and Leighton's friendship endured throughout their lives.

Her daughter, Mary Theodosia (May) Sartoris, married Henry Evans-Gordon. Their daughter, Margaret Evans-Gordon, married Sir Arthur Stanley, 5th Baron Sheffield. Kualaika's great-granddaughter, Pamela Stanley, gained recognition as an actress known for her portrayals of Queen Victoria on stage and in films.

Adelaide Kemble Sartoris authored two notable works: "A Week in a French Country House" (1867) and "Past Hours" (published in two volumes in 1880).