Born in Paris in 1930, Delphine Brownlee grew up following her dad, an opera singer, as he toured around the world. Some of her fondest childhood memories were being backstage with him at venues like the Metropolitan Opera in New York; it was there that she first became interested in entertainment as a profession. Today, Ms. Brownlee is proud to have turned that interest into a booming career. She remains committed to the field, and is currently offering her lifetime of experiences as a valuable resource for younger generations through her private studio. She has worked there since 1977.
Over the course of her journey, Ms. Brownlee has held numerous other positions as well. She was part of the original cast of “Man of La Mancha” on Broadway in the lead role of Aldonza, and was a cast member for “The Unsinkable Molly Brown,” “Fade-Out, Fade-In,” “Here’s Love,” and “Carnival.” She also accepted voice-over opportunities for television and radio commercials, held recitals at Carnegie Recital Hall, and performed opera at Singers Theatre. On the academic side of the spectrum, she was faculty at the Conservatory Hackley School, adjunct professor at Montclair State University, and faculty at Mount Kisco School of Music.
Ms. Brownlee prepared for her endeavors by studying with voice teacher Ruth Pinkerton and at the Neighborhood Playhouse, where she earned a diploma in 1949. She ensured that she stayed up-to-date by maintaining affiliation with the Actors’ Equity Association, the Screen Actors Guild, the New York Singing Teachers Association, the New York State Music Teachers Association, and the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists.
In recognition of her hard work, dedication and achievement, Ms. Brownlee was honored with inclusion in copious volumes of Who’s Who in America, Who’s Who in the World, and Who’s Who of American Women. If she could offer some advice to others entering the workforce, it would be to do whatever it takes to achieve success; find out the requirements and be prepared to meet them.
When Ms. Brownlee has spare time, she enjoys gardening, reading, and bird watching.