A Journey of Grace,
Art, and Resilience.

From her beginnings in Ibadan, Nigeria, to the stages of London and the iconic worlds of film and theatre, Femi Taylor’s journey is one shaped by artistry, resilience, and self-discovery. Through every chapter of her life, she has continued to evolve, finding new ways to express herself both on and beyond the stage.

Femi Taylor Portrait

Stage & Screen Legacy

Femi Taylor's career is marked by iconic roles and groundbreaking performances. From the original London cast of Cats to the iconic Oola in Star Wars, her artistry as a dancer and actress has left an indelible mark on popular culture.

Star Wars: Return of the Jedi (Oola)
Cats (Original London Cast - Tantomile)
Cats (1998 Film - Exotica)
Trained at London School of Contemporary Dance
The Alvin Ailey School (New York)

Her Philosophy

The principles that guide Femi's work on stage, on screen, and on the page.

Resilience

From Nigeria to the global stage, every challenge became a chapter in a larger story of perseverance.

Connection

Art bridges cultures. Femi's work speaks to fans across generations, continents, and mediums.

Reinvention

Dancer, actress, author — each identity builds on the last without leaving the others behind.

Milestones of a Lifetime

Scroll down to walk through Femi Taylor's extraordinary legacy on stage, screen, and page.

1963

A New Beginning

Following her adoption, Femi began a new chapter of life in England, carrying with her roots that would remain part of her story forever.

1965

Discovering Dance

After attending her first dance class, Femi found something she instinctively knew she loved. It was the beginning of a lifelong passion.

1976

London School of Contemporary Dance

Awarded a place at one of Britain’s leading dance institutions, beginning professional training that would shape her future career.

1977

Bubbling Brown Sugar

Cast in her first major West End production. Beyond the discipline of professional theatre, the show celebrated Black culture, confidence, and identity, and marked the beginning of Femi feeling truly beautiful in her own skin.

1978

The Apple

Appeared as a dancer in the cult musical film The Apple, adding screen experience to her growing stage career.

1979

Training in New York

Travelled to New York to study at The Alvin Ailey School, immersing herself in one of the world’s most influential centres of dance training.

1979

The Wiz

Performed in The Wiz at Sheffield’s Crucible Theatre, further expanding her theatrical experience and versatility as a performer.

1981

Cats (London)

Joined the original London cast of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats, originating the role of Tantomile in a production that would become one of the most successful musicals of all time.

1982

Valmouth

Appeared in Valmouth at Chichester Festival Theatre, continuing to build a diverse and respected theatre career.

1983

Returning to Nigeria

Returned to Nigeria to meet her biological father and four siblings, reconnecting with a part of her identity she had never known.

1983

A Place of Her Own

Purchased her first apartment, marking an important step towards independence and self-reliance.

1987

A New Chapter in Australia

After leaving a difficult period behind, Femi relocated to Australia and joined the Melbourne production of Cats

1989

Australian Film Work

Expanded her screen career in Australia, appearing in the films Flirting and A Kink in the Picasso.

1990

Buddy

Toured Australia in Buddy, continuing to build a successful theatre career abroad.

1993

Returning Home

Returned to the United Kingdom after six years living and working in Australia.

1995

Return to Star Wars

Invited back by George Lucas to reprise the role of Oola, becoming the only original performer to film new scenes for the Special Edition.

1996

Jesus Christ Superstar

Appeared in Jesus Christ Superstar, marking the culmination of an extraordinary chapter in West End theatre.

2000 & 2002

Motherhood

The birth of my two sons.

2007

A New Creative Direction

Graduated from KLC School of Design, earning a diploma in Interior Design and beginning a new creative chapter.

2016

Zambezi Designs

Founded Zambezi Designs, combining creativity, vision, and independence.

Present

The Writer’s Journey

Drawing together a lifetime of experiences, Femi now shares her story through writing, reflection, and memoir.

Success Stories

"Highlights of a career built on passion, persistence, and pure artistry."

The Surprise Audition

Being cast in Star Wars at age 22 without knowing what she was auditioning for—a moment that changed her life forever.

Dual Mastery

Performing in the original London cast of Cats while simultaneously filming Star Wars, showcasing incredible discipline and talent.

The Chosen One

Being the only original performer recalled 14 years later for the Special Edition, a testament to her timeless talent.

A Character Created for Her

Having the character 'Exotica' created specifically for her in the Cats film, an honor reserved for the most exceptional artists.

Discover the Full Story

From Star Wars to Cats to the written page — explore every chapter of Femi's remarkable journey.