Félix, Lia (b. 1830)

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Félix, Lia (b. 1830)

French actress. Name variations: Felix. Born 1830; 3rd dau. of poor Jewish peddlers, Jacques and Thèrese Félix; pupil of her actress sister, Rachel (1821–1858).

Had hardly been tested as an actress when she was asked to take the lead in Lamartine's Toussaint L'Ouverture at Porte St. Martin (April 6, 1850); though the play was not a hit, was favorably received; came to be recognized as one of the best comedians in Paris, but was forced to retire for several years because of poor health; had an enormous success when she reappeared at the Gaiété in title role of Jules Barbier's Jeanne d'Arc.

See also Women in World History.