Ruby Elzy

Biography

Ruby Pearl Elzy was a renowned American operatic soprano, born in Pontotoc, Mississippi, on February 20, 1908. She originated the role of Serena in George Gershwin's opera Porgy and Bess, and later entertained the White House for First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt's luncheon in 1937. Elzy studied at the Juilliard School, graduating in 1934, and performed on Broadway in the play Brown Sugar in 1937.