Harriet Elizabeth Savill facts for kids
Harriet Elizabeth Savill (born Diddear, later Farren), also known as Mrs Faucit, was an English actress. She was born in 1789 and passed away in 1857. Harriet became a well-known performer on the British stage during the 19th century.
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Early Life and Stage Beginnings
Harriet Diddear was the daughter of John Diddear, who managed a theatre, and his wife Anne. She started acting at a very young age. Her first stage appearance was at just six years old at the Theatre Royal in Brighton. As a child, she also performed in other towns like Dover, Richmond, and Margate.
When she was 15, Harriet married John Faucit Savill on September 2, 1805. Soon after, they began performing together as "Mr & Mrs Faucit" in places like Margate and Dover. They had six children. One of their children, Helena Faucit, also became a very famous actress.
A Star in London Theatres
In 1813, Harriet Faucit made her big debut in London. On October 7, she played the role of Desdemona at the famous Covent Garden Theatre. Later that year, on November 15, she also performed as Cleopatra at the same theatre.
For the next two decades, Harriet Faucit was a regular on London's biggest stages. She performed at Covent Garden, the Haymarket Theatre, and the Drury Lane Theatre. These were some of the most important theatres in England at the time.
Harriet Faucit's Acting Style
Harriet Faucit was known for her versatile acting. She was very good at playing funny characters in comedies. For example, she was successful as Celia in The Humourous Lieutenant. She also excelled as the main character in melodramas and musical plays.
While some found her serious acting less convincing in roles like Lady Macbeth, she was truly moving in parts such as Meg Merrilies from Guy Mannering. Her beautiful face and strong presence made her perfect for playing royal characters. She often took on roles like Queen Elizabeth in Richard III, Gertrude in Hamlet, and the empress in The Exile.
Later Life
Harriet Faucit continued her life in the theatre world. After her first husband passed away, she married William Farren in 1853. William Farren had two sons, Henry and William, who also became actors.
Harriet Elizabeth Savill passed away in London on June 16, 1857. She left behind a legacy as a talented and memorable actress of her time.
Images for kids
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1820 print of Harriet Faucit as Lady Racket.
