Amy Sherwin (1855-1935) born at Judbury, beside the Huon River, and named the 'Tasmanian Nightingale' after being discovered in 1878 by the Royal Italian Opera Company, then touring in Tasmania. She went on to become an internationally renowned soprano and the world became her stage. She performed across the globe and her first return to Australia was in 1887 when Hobart gave her an extraordinary welcome, with thousands cramming the streets, rockets being fired and church bells ringing.
Amy Sherwin's legacy has been lost over time. The Amy Sherwin Fund members have worked tirelessly to reinstate her reputation and international achievements and is working towards having a full-size marble statue made in her honour. Australia's pre-eminent sculptor Peter Schipperheyn is currently creating this work, to be installed in the foyer at Hadley's Orient Hotel, Murray Street, Hobart . Amy Sherwin performed at Hadley's in 1887.
This project – the Amy Sherwin Launch – is the culmination of extensive planning to bring the story to the fore and celebrate one of the world's greatest opera singers – a young Tasmanian woman who serves as inspiration to others wishing to excel in the arts.
The launch day is designed as a public celebration, occurring in Murray Street, on a Sunday, alongside viewing opportunities and prestigious ticketed pre and post events, in partnership with Hadley's Orient Hotel.