Sylvia Young, the trailblazing founder of the performing arts school that bears her name and launched the careers of some of Britain’s biggest stars, has died at the age of 86.
Her daughter, West End performer Frances Ruffelle, confirmed she passed away peacefully on Wednesday morning surrounded by family.
Young founded the Sylvia Young Theatre School in 1972, originally offering part-time classes in London’s East End before expanding to a full-time academy.
Now based in Westminster, the school commands a strong reputation for nurturing young talent and charges up to £14,400 a year in fees.
Over the decades, the school’s alumni has read like a who’s who of British showbiz.
Amy Winehouse, Billie Piper, Rita Ora, Spice Girl Emma Bunton, Dua Lipa, Denise Van Outen and McFly’s Tom Fletcher are among the many names to have passed through its doors.
In a heartfelt tribute, Ruffelle, who originated the role of Eponine in the West End production of Les Misérables, praised her mother’s legacy: “Our mum was a true visionary, she gave young people from all walks of life the chance to pursue their performing arts skills to the highest standard.
“Her rare ability to recognise raw talent and encourage all her students, contributed to the richness of today’s theatre world, even winning an Olivier award herself along the way.
“She believed hard work with a bit of luck brought success and she was an example of that herself. Above all she leaves the memory of an East End girl who’s worked hard to achieve her goals, took hold of life and lived it to the full.
“Her family were everything to her, her wonderful husband, Norman, our dad and her grandchildren, Eliza, Nat, Phoenix and Coral and her great grandson, Felix.
“We share her love with her wide and inclusive family, her friends, her students, you all meant the world to her.”
Since news of her passing, tribute shave poured in.
All Saints singer Nicole Appleton wrote: “Frances, I am so sorry to hear your amazing mum has passed. She was a massive part in my life and paved the way for so many of us! Sending you all so much love.”
Her sister and fellow All Saints star wrote: “Oh Frances. I am so sad, so sorry to hear this news. Your amazing mum was a pioneer. She was a rare force who just knew... and she worked so hard.. what a legend.
“This is going to really affect us all who were lucky enough to be part of her amazing world growing up. What a time. The best memories. I'm sending so much love to you and all the family.”
Radio legend Tony Blackburn commented: “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.”
Actor Sadie Frost wrote: 'What a woman, what a family, what a legacy! Sending everyone so much love and support - I am here if you need me.
“She was always so lovely to me and will cherish memories forever.”
