TV ACTRESS

Tragedia

TRUE STOPY

Joan FNZ-C-1

This is about Joan Kempthorne in her stage and cabaret work under the name of Gabrielle.

Like the majority of TVs, I started dressing at the age of 8, conveni- ently using my sister's clothes and from then on, through Preparatory and secondary school to University, I never lost an opportunity of changing and becoming my feminine counterpart, sometimes with the sympathetic support and assistance of other girls — rather like your story "Fated for Feminity." This meant that I grew up through the various ages in a feminine role until I could drop into it quite naturally, closing off completely my masculine personality. Apart from 41⁄2 years on active service with the Army, I have continued this dual life with interruption and through the kindness and friendship of others, particu- larly one in London I was able to develop a philosophy which brought me peace of mind and enabled me to live with myself at peace.

Whilst at Preparatory School (pre 13) the matron would dress me as a little girl for Saturday night dances during the winter term, in a white organza party frock with frills and ribbons and a wide blue sash with a big bow at the back, completed with white cotton stockings, black danc- ing shoes and a bow in my hair. Strangely enough, I was never "razzed" about this by the other boys.

Later, I became interested in drama and joined an Amateur The- atrical Society and the local Repertory Society, with which I acted for about 12 years, playing many leads. During this period, I first visited Madame Arthur's in Paris, a place I have since visited many, many times. The first visit was made at the suggestion of a kindly doctor in London, who knew of my TV personality. It was Madame Arthur's

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