'She was responsible for so many careers' - Tributes flood in for London theatre school founder Sylvia Young
Theatre school founder, who helped launch the careers of stars including Dua Lipa and Amy Winehouse has passed away at the age of 86.
Tributes have flooded in for London theatre school founder Sylvia Young, who has passed away at the age of 86.
Sylvia was a prominent figure in the UK entertainment industry, best known as the founder of the Sylvia Young Theatre School in Marylebone. The school opened in 1981, as a school that combines academic studies with intensive training in the performing arts.
Many well-known British actors, singers, and performers have attended the Sylvia Young Theatre School, including Billie Piper, Amy Winehouse, Emma Bunton and Dua Lipa.
There has been an outpouring of love for the theatre school founder, who was known for her no-nonsense but supportive approach to education.
Olivier Awards posted a tribute on X, it said: “Special Recognition Award winner and Theatre School Founder Sylvia Young has sadly passed away. Young started teaching part-time drama classes in London in 1972 before founding the full-time Sylvia Young Theatre School in 1981. Teaching hundreds of students every year, many West End productions have seen alumni of the Sylvia Young Theatre School on their stages. Our thoughts are with her family, friends and former students.”
Radio host and DJ, Tony Blackburn said: “So sorry to hear Sylvia Young has passed away. She founded the Sylvia Young Theatre School which has been responsible for starting so many careers in TV and Theatre. She was a very lovely lady who I have had the privilege of knowing for many years. She will be sadly missed. R.I.P Sylvia.”
Grange Hill actor, Ricky Simmonds wrote: “The great Sylvia Young has passed away. I didn’t train at her school, but she was my agent for a couple of years. For a tough, strong character - she was always warm and kind to me. Incredible woman, who had an extraordinary life. Love and condolences to the family. RIP Sylvia.”
It was followed by a post from the official Grange Hill account that said: “Just heard the very sad news that Sylvia Young has passed away. She founded the Sylvia Young Theatre School which many of the Grange Hill cast attended, giving them their start in acting. Thoughts are with her family and friends at this sad time.”
The Musical Theatre Review posted: “So sad to hear that Sylvia Young has died. My husband Brian and I have such fond memories of getting to know her during our time at The Stage when the scholarships she gave out made such a difference. She was an absolute treasure. Sending much love to all her family and friends.”
Singer, Kara Marni posted: “My life wouldn’t be what it is without Sylvia Young believing in me and encouraging my dreams. Even when I got sent to her for being naughty, our bond never broke. Heartbroken she’s gone…An incredible woman with a lasting legacy. Sending love to all who knew her.”