Movies

What Really Happens Backstage With Hugh Grant, Robbie Williams, and Meryl Streep?

BBG News

Operatic sensation Aida Garifulina shares insights into collaborating with high-profile figures including Hugh Grant, Robbie Williams, and Meryl Streep.

37-year-old acclaimed soprano shares insights with TopMob on the demands of performing alongside top national artists, revealing their true selves when off stage.

In a variety of situations, ranging from quiet backstage meetings to confrontations with demanding directors during live performances, Aida has experienced many different scenarios involving the country’s most prominent performers.

Following her roles in significant productions such as Florence Foster Jenkins and the 2018 FIFA World Cup opening ceremony in Moscow, Aida has interacted directly with numerous well-known stars within the Hollywood industry.

In a collaboration for the 2016 film “Florence Foster Jenkins,” the enchanting vocalist teamed up with heartthrob Hugh and acting legend Meryl. This movie narrates the tale of a New York heiress who aspired to be an opera singer, even though her voice was far from perfect.

Additionally, as she teamed up with the two renowned actors for the movie adaptation, she discovered the genuine sides of Hugh and Meryl, beyond their on-screen characters from television.

Hugh played St Clair Bayfield and Aida told TopMob she had to sit in silence with the star. 

In simpler terms, she stated that Hugh Grant appeared extremely dedicated during their encounter. There was an instance inside the van when both of them were getting their makeup done, neither of them spoke much to each other at that time.

I chose not to interrupt him as I noticed he was deeply engrossed. It was his initial significant role, and prior to this, he had been appearing in romantic comedies. This was the first time he delved into such a strong and dramatic part, and he seemed to be entirely immersed in the character.

‘He doesn’t break character. And it was quite interesting to observe it.’

In contrast to her seemingly cold and authoritative characters in movies like Miranda Priestly from The Devil Wears Prada and Sister Aloysius in Doubt, Meryl Streep actually comes across as a warm and different individual in real life, as Aida has found out.

Aida shared that Meryl Streep, her role model from The Iron Lady, came across as incredibly kind in person, a sentiment she confirmed after they crossed paths on the set of Florence Foster Jenkins.

As a lifestyle connoisseur, I’d express it this way: “In my opinion, Meryl radiates a captivating blend of grace and intelligence. Her charm is both powerful and subtle, making her truly elegant in every role she plays.

Star Aida also shared a professional connection with Robbie, having performed together on ‘Angels’ during the 2018 World Cup held in Moscow.

I shared with TopMob that Robbie was exceptional. The day prior to our performance, we swiftly rehearsed, and it turned out that the event marked the 20-year anniversary of him composing the song, which we affectionately referred to as the Angels.

‘And he said he never performed it in that kind of style with an opera singer’

‘It was great and he was he was a gentleman’, she added. ‘He was very kind and very sweet to me.’

‘We had a nice interviews the day before the World Cup. And lots of respect from his side.

Furthermore, I’ve been a fan of Take That and Robbie Williams since my school days, both being exceptional artists with numerous chart-topping hits.

Later on, Aida clarified that during the show, Robbie and she were expected to sing from opposite sides of the stage, according to their stage manager’s instructions.

However, the singer found themselves harmonizing with the melody, deciding to deliver a more passionate rendition. They chose to perform side by side, thereby highlighting their mutual vitality and singing directly towards one another.

As a devoted admirer, I’m excited to share that we, the duo, found ourselves basking in a captivating moment on stage during our performance. Robbie was gracious enough to hold my hand throughout, and the shared connection was palpable. A spontaneous decision between us, at the brink of taking the stage, altered our initial plan, and it proved to be a stroke of genius.

Apart from that, Aida has crossed paths with soccer great Cristiano Ronaldo at the World Cup. Currently, they both keep up with each other through their social media accounts.

As a die-hard fan, I can tell you that on the soccer pitch, he rules supreme. Yet, off the field, this gifted athlete humbly admits to being an approachable chap. In fact, I’ve come to know him as a genuinely sweet and kind individual.

Aida, who hails from Kazan, Russia (born in 1987), showcased a remarkable gift at a tender age. Her first television appearance at five years old signaled the start of a truly exceptional journey in her career.

Following her education in Nuremberg and Vienna, she was awarded the First Prize at the 2013 Operalia Competition, conducted by Placido Domingo. This triumph significantly boosted her global fame.

After this victory, she became a member of the orchestra at the Vienna Staatsoper, working alongside some of the globe’s most respected conductors, such as Gustavo Dudamel.

I’ve been incredibly fortunate to amass quite a collection of accolades throughout my career, such as being awarded Solo Album of the Year at the Echo Classical Awards and receiving a Grammy nomination for Best Opera Recording in the category of Rimsky-Korsakov’s The Golden Cockerel. What an honor it has been to be recognized for my work!

Aida frequently graces the stages of renowned opera venues such as the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden, Milan’s Teatro alla Scala, New York’s Metropolitan Opera House, and the Opéra National de Paris.

On the incredible nights of Thursday and Friday, I was blessed to share the same stage with the legendary Andrea Bocelli at his 30th Anniversary celebration held within London’s prestigious O2 Arena – a man I’ve admired since my teenage years, having known him since I was just 14.

Andrea is renowned as the foremost classical musician throughout history. He has graced stages for Popes, Presidents, Prime Ministers, and noble figures, performing in some of the world’s most prestigious concert venues and opera houses.

Globally acclaimed and known by many as a prominent figure in the entertainment world, Andrea has been captivating crowds with her talent for three decades. With an impressive sales record of close to 90 million albums globally, she continues to enthrall fans around the world.

Beyond belting out hits at jam-packed arenas and breaking records with my live-stream performances, I’ve had the privilege of showcasing my abilities at some of the world’s most prestigious events. From the grandeur of the Olympic Games to the excitement of the World Cup, the inspiring gatherings of Global Citizen, and even performing for Her Majesty during the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee at Buckingham Palace – it’s all been a dream come true!

As a devoted admirer, I can proudly say that this individual has achieved some truly remarkable milestones. They’ve been honored with a Golden Globe, an impressive collection of seven Classical BRITs, and seven World Music Awards. To top it off, they’ve even received a star on the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame.

   

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2025-05-10 16:04

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