Siddons, << SIHD uhnz, >> Sarah Kemble (1755-1831), was one of England’s greatest tragic actresses. She enchanted audiences and critics with her rich voice, striking beauty, and powerful presence. She became a subject of poets and painters.
Siddons was born on July 5, 1755, in Wales, where her father, Roger Kemble, was touring with his English acting company. She married actor William Siddons when she was 18. In the 1775-1776 season, Sarah Siddons failed as an actress in David Garrick’s Drury Lane Theatre in London. She gained more experience acting in the English provinces, rejoined Garrick’s company in 1782, and became a success. Her brothers Charles Kemble, John Philip Kemble, and Stephen Kemble also became noted actors. Siddons died on June 8, 1831.
