She was born in London, and made her debut in her brother's first opera, Rosamund, in 1733. In 1734, she married Theophilus Cibber, the son of playwright Colley Cibber, and became known as "Mrs Cibber" for professional purposes. A contralto, she was admired by Handel, who wrote parts specially for her in The Messiah and Samson. She also acted at Drury Lane, the theatre managed by her father-in-law, where she appeared with David Garrick. She had a particularly high reputation for tragic acting which Garrick, also a close friend, enhanced by working with her to erode her somewhat monotonous delivery. "Then tragedy dies with her", he is said to have exclaimed upon hearing of her death.
Arne was born in the Covent Garden area of London, to a family that had prospered in the upholstery business.
Arne's sister, SusannahMariaArne, was a famous contralto who performed in some of his works, including his first opera, Rosamund, performed in 1733.
Arne'soperas and masques became very popular, and he received the patronage of Frederick, Prince of Wales, at whose country home, Cliveden, the Masque of Alfred, featuring "Rule, Britannia", was first performed.
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