The life and work of Amália Rodrigues, the famed Fado singer, is explored in two simultaneous exhibitions at the Museum of Electricity and the Berardo Museum of Contemporary Art in Lisbon. The exhibitions commemorate the 10th anniversary of the legendary singer’s death in October 1999.

Amália – Coração Independente, at the Berardo Museum, is a retrospective of Rodrigues’ life with iconography including photographs, posters, magazine covers and paintings. There is also a selection of films and documentaries about thge singer. The exhibition will later tour various countries including France and Japan.

The Museum of Electricity is displaying some of Rodrigues’ most dazzling stage costumes and jewels. Although she was an exceptional musical talent, Amália Rodrigues was also an iconic performer and her glamorous dresses and luxurious jewellery show a diva to rival Kylie, Cher and Beyoncé when it comes to stage costumes.

Despite her humble birth, Amalia Rodrigues became known as the “Rainha do Fado” (Queen of Fado) and was perhaps one of the most important figures in popularising the musical genre. With a career spanning four decades, Rodrigues was an international star and performed on stages all over the world. If you know anything about Fado, you will immediately recognise her voice, which encapsulates “saudade” (a sense of loss, longing and nostalgia) to perfection.

Amália – Coração Independente runs at both venues until January 31st 2010.

www.museuberardo.pt