Saturday, December 22, 2012

Jemima


"...we wanted to find the little young thing, with the wonderful wide-open face..."
--Gillian Lynne, choreographer

Jemima, sometimes known as Sillabub, is the smallest, youngest, sweetest kitten. She is innocent and pure, full of love for the world and hope that even Grizabella can be healed. She is the old cat's chief supporter, singing with her and accepting her without question.
Jemima is loved by everyone in the Tribe. Even the Rum Tum Tugger seems to respect and like her. She is one of the biggest members of his "fan club", but is not as inhibition-free as Etcetera. She may be Victoria's or Electra's sister, and is close friends of all the kittens.
It is possible that Jennyanydots is Jemima's mother, as she protects her savagely. Jemima is not one of Macavity's victims, but she does dance in his female ensemble. She seems to fear him, but not as much as the older cats. She puts a great deal of trust in Munkustrap and Old Deuteronomy to protect the Tribe.
Jemima is close friends with the insightful Coricopat and Tantomile (or Mungojerrie and Rumpleteazer, in smaller productions). When Old Deuteronomy sings his complex idea of what happiness is, Jemima translates it into simpler language that reaches everyone.
Although Jemima seems too young to fully understand the problems of her Tribe, her innocence allows her to see things clearly, which is why she understands Grizabella better than anyone.

Useful Facts About the Role

Jemima is one of those parts where, unfortunately, looks matter (see quote and picture above). The key thing when acting her is to let your idealism and empathy shine through, and make everyone love you.
Jemima has no dance solo, but dances with the ensemble. She should have a high, sweet soprano voice.

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