Overview

• She passed away peacefully on July 30 at age 86, surrounded by family, her daughters Frances and Alison Ruffelle confirmed.
• Frances and Alison Ruffelle praised her as a true visionary who opened doors for young people from diverse backgrounds to pursue rigorous performing arts education.
• Tributes have poured in from industry figures and alumni, including radio host Tony Blackburn, actors Sadie Frost and Tom Fletcher, who lauded her mentorship.
• The Sylvia Young Theatre School remains open in a converted Westminster church, offering full- and part-time courses for 10- to 16-year-olds with a dual GCSE and arts curriculum.
• Since its founding in 1972, the school has launched the careers of stars such as Amy Winehouse, Billie Piper, Rita Ora, Emma Bunton and Dua Lipa.