Thanks for turning to your community to ask this question. I know both an essential and vulnerable question. Of course, there are different perspectives about this, so I will note that my perspective is rooted in my identity as an artist-educator of color and a scholar whose work specifically focuses on culturally responsive theatre education.
While there is certainly prescient for past productions or past versions to replicate the original creation, there are a few quips here in an educational institution where everything is an opportunity to engage in conversation with your students and your community. As you have noted, this is a question you and your community are already wrestling with – which is the first step – asking the question and sitting with it before taking action! This is the work of responsive teaching – BRAVO!
It is certainly true that there are White individuals in Jamaica, but I would suggest not adding the accent, for it could be seen as cultural appropriation. I think the beauty of this piece is that it welcomes a multitude of bodies, and we can celebrate that! The sea connects all of the continents, who knows where Sebastian came from! The name has its roots in many cultures and places around the globe! I personally find my connection with the character as a conductor. I might encourage you and your students to investigate where the connections lie between the student and the character and focus on them rather than the replication of an accent.
Thank you so much! – Josh
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Joshua Streeter
Assistant Professor of Theatre Education
VA
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Original Message:
Sent: 12-07-2025 11:47
From: Sarah Carlin
Subject: Using a Jamaican accent for Sebastian in The Little Mermaid
Thank you for your input. I have decided not to use a Jamaican accent and have the actor find his own voice for Sebastian.
- Sarah
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Original Message:
Sent: 12/7/2025 11:25:00 AM
From: Lindsay Brustein
Subject: RE: Using a Jamaican accent for Sebastian in The Little Mermaid
Agreed- do not use it. Happy to share more if you want to dm me!
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Lindsay Hearn Brustein
St. Stephen's Episcopal School
Austin TX
Original Message:
Sent: 12-05-2025 10:10
From: Sarah Carlin
Subject: Using a Jamaican accent for Sebastian in The Little Mermaid
My administration is questioning whether we should have our young (white) actor use a Jamaican accent in his portrayal of Sebastian in our production of The Little Mermaid. I feel that it is part of the essence of the character, but obviously don't want to offend. Any thoughts?
- scarlin
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Sarah Carlin
MA
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