Along the way, his quest to stay in performing shape blossomed into a passion for fitness, and he eventually carved out a reputation on Broadway as a trainer who understood the challenges of taking the stage night after night.

FORBES: Bright Lights, Big Fitness: The Business Of Keeping Broadway In Shape

She took time out for aggressive treatment and returned to performing earlier this year, most notably singing La Passion de Simone (written for her by Kaija Saariaho) in London this summer.

NPR: Soprano Dawn Upshaw Awarded MacArthur Grant