Adruitha Lee, the award-winning hairstylist known for her collaboration with Angelina Jolie in “Maria,” recently reflected on the inspiration behind her work. She drew parallels between the glamorous standards of 20th-century opera divas and her own family experience, particularly her aunts in 1960s Alabama. According to Lee, these women epitomized the perfection and poise expected of women during that era, always appearing polished even for simple outings like grocery shopping. One of her aunts maintained a collection of intricate “cluster curl” hairpieces, similar to the iconic hairstyles of famous opera singer Maria Callas.
In preparing to portray Callas in the film, Lee looked to the extensive visual documentation of Callas’s style, captured by photographers such as Richard Avedon and Cecil Beaton, as well as early paparazzi photos. Working closely with Jolie and director Pablo Larraín, Lee crafted a range of hairstyles that reflected Callas’s theatrical and everyday personas. Lee noted that Callas once expressed her desire to embody both an operatic presence and a relatable human side, stating, “I would like to be Maria, but there is the Callas that I have to live up to.”
To bring Callas’s character to life, Lee utilized twelve wigs and numerous hairpieces, heavily relying on hairspray to achieve the desired effect. She emphasized the importance of hair in defining Callas’s overall appearance, given her striking facial features. However, Lee was careful not to let the hairstyles overshadow the narrative, insisting that “the hair is not supposed to be a character.”
This exploration of the delicate balance between personal identity and public perception, as seen through the lens of both opera and everyday life, offers hope and inspiration. It serves as a reminder of the remarkable power of artistry in transforming narratives while honoring the legacies of influential figures.
Ultimately, Lee’s work not only revives the grandeur of Callas’s style but also highlights the timeless quest for authenticity and grace in the public eye.