Rosemond Mountain facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Rosemond Mountain
An engraving after J.J.Masquerier
Born	around 1768 London, UK
Died	3 July 1841 London, UK
Known for	singing

Rosemond Mountain (born around 1768 – died 3 July 1841), also known as Rosemond Wilkinson, was a famous British actress and singer. She was known for her beautiful soprano voice. Many people said she was the "best female singer on the English stage" starting from the year 1800.

Early Life and Career

Rosemond Wilkinson was born in London around 1768. She came from a family of performers. Her father and an aunt were tightrope walkers. Her mother was also an actress and helped with their shows. Rosemond's older brothers and sister performed too. They played musical glasses and showed off their balancing skills.

Rosemond was trained for the theatre by Charles Dibdin. At first, she only had small parts. But on November 4, 1782, she got a big role. She played Madame Hazard in a play called Mount Parnassus at the Surrey Theatre. This role kept her busy until 1784.

Joining the York Circuit

By the end of 1784, Rosemond started working for Tate Wilkinson in his theatre group called the York Circuit. Her family moved north with her. Even though they had the same last name, they were not related to Tate Wilkinson. She played Clarissa in a play called Lionel and Clarissa. She acted alongside Dorothy Jordan, who played Lionel.

Becoming a Star Singer

Rosemond started working at the Covent Garden theatre in 1786. This was a very important theatre. She worked there for a long time, until 1798. In 1787, she married John Mountain. He was a violinist who later became the leader of the orchestra at Vauxhall Gardens. In 1794, he started leading the musicians at Covent Garden.

After a short break from the theatre, "Mrs Mountain" (as she was now known) returned. She began to take on major singing roles. One of her famous roles was Lucinda in the play Love in a Village.

Top Singer of Her Time

At some point, Rosemond was taught by a famous Italian singer named Venanzio Rauzzini. Her singing skills became even better. From 1800, she was called the "best female singer on the English stage." She showed this when she played Polly in the famous play Beggar's Opera.

In 1807, she had a special show in Glasgow. This show included a play called False Alarm. A funny actress named Mary Ann Orger was also in the cast.

Later Years and Legacy

In 1819, Rosemond Mountain played Maid Marian in a musical play called Robin Hood and Little John. This was at the Surrey Theatre. Charles Incledon played Robin Hood in the show.

Rosemond Mountain passed away in London at her home in 1841. She is remembered as one of the most talented singers and actresses of her time.

Images for kids

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  Engraving of Rosemond Mountain with a guitar