What is a “diseuse”?

“Diseuse” is the French feminine form of "diseur". It is a term applied to female storytellers, dramatic-singers or dramatic-talkers originating in the last decade of the 19th century.

The early use of “diseuse” as a theatrical term in the American press seems to coincide with Yvette Guilbert’s tour of New York City in the mid-1890s. Yvette Guilbert (January 20, 1865 – February 3, 1944) was a celebrated French cabaret singer and actor.

In 1949, the publication “Theatre World” reported on the influence of 3 “diseuses”—Ruth Draper, Cornelia Otis Skinner and Joyce Grenfell. Each of these artists had the gift of filling the stage with imaginary but vivid figures.

Ruth Draper (December 2, 1884 – December 30, 1956) was known for her monologues, "speaking portraits" and "character sketches", portraying many different characters utilizing a range of languages and dialects.

Cornelia Otis Skinner (May 30, 1899 – July 9, 1979), was an American author and actor who reportedly decided to drop the term "diseuse" from her act after reading in a newspaper: "Cornelia Otis Skinner, the American disease, gave a programme last night."

Joyce Grenfell (10 February 1910 – 30 November 1979) was a comedian, actor and writer who wrote in “Darling Ma: Joyce Grenfell's Letters to her Mother 1932–1944”, "What makes a good diseuse is a capacious verbal (and visual) imagination, and an excellent oral delivery. Call these witty ladies Diseuses of the Heart and Lungs. I do."