Jennifer Theriot, a seasoned performer in The Lion King, shares her experiences and personal insights into portraying Sarabi, the mother of Simba and wife of Mufasa, a role she has brought to life for nearly a decade.
Currently performing in the national tour of the beloved production, Jennifer embodies Sarabi as a queen, a mother, and a steadfast leader of the Pride Lands. As the tour makes its stop in Chicago, she’s excited to be back in the city, calling it “the perfect weather window” for both performing and exploring.
Also, a wife and mother in real life, Theriot brings a profound emotional depth to her portrayal of Sarabi, infusing the character with a genuine balance of nurturing care and quiet leadership.
Through her performance, she honors Sarabi’s legacy of strength, grace, and maternal wisdom. Each performance offers a renewed opportunity to connect with audiences, some seeing The Lion King for the first time, others returning for the magic, and to carry forward a story that continues to resonate across generations.
Embodying Sarabi with Authenticity
Jennifer’s portrayal of Sarabi, a role she first took on before becoming a mother herself, has deepened her connection to the lioness queen.
“Now that I have my own child, it’s easier to tap into Sarabi’s strength. When I talk to the cubs on stage, I imagine I’m speaking to my own daughter. It’s as if I could insert her name into those moments.”
Her daughter, who is nearing 11 months old, is already steeped in the rhythms of the Pride Lands. “I performed until I was 37 weeks pregnant, so it’s in her bones. She watches rehearsals now and claps at the right times. She loves music. It fills my heart.”
Strength, Loss, and Quiet Power
In both the film and Broadway production of The Lion King, Sarabi is portrayed as a symbol of quiet strength, resilience, and unwavering dignity.
After the death of her husband, Mufasa, and the presumed loss of her son, Simba, Sarabi doesn’t have much time to grieve. Instead, she chooses to remain strong for her pride, even as she is forced to be under the oppressive rule of Scar.
Even when faced with an overbearing and unjust leader, she refuses to bow to intimidation, holding her head high in the presence of her enemies.
“I play that scene by holding onto my power. I don’t let him take it. When I say, ‘You are not half the king Mufasa was,’ that’s me breaking my silence. I’m done protecting his ego. I’m here for my pride,” said Theriot.
The return of Simba marks a powerful emotional turning point, not just for the story but for Sarabi as a mother. It reflects a rare intersection of strength and vulnerability: a mother who, after bearing the weight of loss and leadership, can finally lean on her child.
As a seeker of justice, Sarabi stands firm in support of the rightful heir to the throne and proudly accepts Simba as the new king of the Pride Lands.
On Puppets, Corsets, and Queenship
Sarabi’s costume is iconic and shares how it literally shapes her performance.
“We wear corsets that hold you upright. They’re hand-heated, so there’s weight to them, but you carry yourself like a queen. The silk moves with you; it’s strong and feminine. And then there’s the puppet on our heads. Even when your hands aren’t in it, it’s a puppet, and it has to look alive. If I tilt my head down, it looks angry. So I’ve trained myself to move with awareness. I even draw inspiration from Actress Phylicia Rashad, her poise, her clarity. That’s how I approach Sarabi.”
Her favorite moment of the show?
“Circle of Life”, hands down. We’re all on stage together, and I make it a point to lock eyes with everyone before we start. That shared energy, it’s magic,” said Theriot
A Legacy of Grace for the Next Generation
Originally from New Orleans, Jennifer Theriot expresses a deep appreciation for Chicago, highlighting its distinctive architecture, vibrant food scene, rich culture, and the energy that comes with city life.
While touring with The Lion King, she enjoys exploring each city she visits. She finds Chicago especially inviting, calling this time of year one of the best seasons for performing and exploring.
For Jennifer, portraying Sarabi is more than a role; it’s a legacy. She sees it as an opportunity to inspire, particularly for younger audiences and up-and-coming performers who may see themselves reflected in her character.
“In a time where everything is so fast, social media, scrolling, reacting, this show reminds you to slow down, to honor the story, to have integrity. That’s how we reach people. It’s always somebody’s first time seeing the show, or their last. That never leaves me.”
When asked what the role means to her as a mother, her response is deeply personal.
“It feels beautiful to give this to her, to show her what it means to hold space, to lead with love, and to shine without apology. I look at her and think, ‘Okay, this is real.’ I want her to see that she can do anything, and do it with joy,” said Theriot
The Lion King will be playing at the Cadillac Palace Theatre from October 3 to October 19, 2025. The performance runs approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including an intermission. The show is recommended for ages six and up.
For more information, visit www.broadwayinchicago.com