Eleanor Calbes Thomson, Feb. 20, 1940 – April 19, 2016

Eleanor Calbes Thomson, Feb. 20, 1940 – April 19, 2016

Eleanor Calbes Thomson’s Concert on Sept. 9, 2012 – My Journey in Song. PHOTOS: RENE SEVILLA

Madam Eleanor Calbes Thomson, noted Filipino-Canadian operatic singer, Broadway performer and director, passed away in a hospital on April 19, 2016. Born in Aparri, Cagayan in northern Philippines, Madam Eleanor Calbes Thomson was a multi-awarded soprano and stage performer.

She was a superb dancer at the famed Bayanihan Philippine National Dance Company, and the first Filipino to perform in Broadway, and won acclamation in many popular major roles. She was one of the founders of the Fiesta Filipino Dance Troupe, and founding director of Mississauga City Centre Opera. At one point, she was bestowed the title of the Most Beautiful Woman in Toronto.

Madam Eleanor Calbes Thomson performed internationally and had rave reviews of her performances. In recognition of her contribution to the performing arts and in taking lead in its promotion, she was chosen as a University of the Philippines Alumni Association (UPAAT) Most Outstanding Alumna in 1990.