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Mary Testa is a renowned American actress and singer, known for her exceptional performances in the world of classical music. Born on June 4, 1955, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Testa grew up in a family that was passionate about music. Her father was a jazz musician, and her mother was a singer, which inspired her to pursue a career in music. Testa's love for music began at an early age, and she started taking piano lessons when she was just six years old. She later learned to play the guitar and the bass, which helped her develop a deep understanding of music. Testa attended the Philadelphia High School for Girls, where she was a member of the school's choir and performed in various musicals. After completing high school, Testa moved to New York City to pursue her dream of becoming a professional musician. She started performing in local clubs and bars, where she gained a reputation for her powerful voice and unique style. Testa's big break came in 1983 when she was cast in the Broadway musical "Barnum," which earned her critical acclaim and a Tony Award nomination. Testa's success in "Barnum" opened doors for her, and she went on to perform in several other Broadway productions, including "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum," "Chicago," and "42nd Street." She also appeared in several off-Broadway productions, including "The Vagina Monologues" and "The Wax." Testa's talent and versatility as a performer have earned her numerous awards and accolades throughout her career. In 1996, she won an Obie Award for her performance in the off-Broadway production of "From Above." She also received a Drama Desk Award nomination for her role in the Broadway production of "On the Town" in 1998. Testa's success in the world of classical music has also earned her recognition outside of the theater world. In 2005, she was awarded the Richard Rodgers Award for Excellence in Musical Theater by the American Academy of Arts and Letters. She was also inducted into the American Theater Hall of Fame in 2017. Testa's performances in classical music have been described as powerful, emotional, and captivating. Her ability to connect with her audience and convey the emotions of the music has made her one of the most sought-after performers in the industry. She has performed with some of the most prestigious orchestras in the world, including the New York Philharmonic, the Boston Pops, and the London Symphony Orchestra. One of Testa's most memorable performances was her rendition of "Send in the Clowns" from the musical "A Little Night Music." Her performance was so moving that it brought the audience to tears and earned her a standing ovation. Testa has also performed in several operas, including "The Marriage of Figaro" and "The Barber of Seville." Testa's passion for music has also led her to explore other genres, including jazz and blues. She has released several albums, including "Have Faith" and "The Rhythm of Life," which showcase her versatility as a performer. In addition to her work in music, Testa is also an advocate for social justice and equality. She has been involved in several charitable organizations, including Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS and the Human Rights Campaign. In conclusion, Mary Testa is a talented and versatile performer who has made a significant impact in the world of classical music. Her powerful voice and emotional performances have earned her numerous awards and accolades throughout her career.

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