Sylvia Young, who founded one of Britain’s most influential performing arts institutions, the Sylvia Young Theatre School, has died peacefully on July 30 at age 86, her daughters confirmed.
Daughters Frances and Alison Ruffelle said in a statement: “It is with great sadness we let you know that our incredible mum Sylvia Young passed away peacefully this morning, July 30, 2025. 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 and music world, even winning herself an Olivier award along the way. She believed hard work with a bit of luck brought success, and she was an example of that herself.”
Young began part‑time drama classes in east London in 1972 before establishing her full‑time theatre school in 1981 on Drury Lane. In 1983, the institution relocated to Marylebone, eventually settling in Westminster in a converted church building by 2010, where it remains a crucible of artistic training.
Young’s exceptional ability to identify and nurture raw talent helped launch the careers of an extraordinary roster of alumni including Amy Winehouse, Billie Piper, Emma Bunton, Rita Ora, Lorde, Denise Van Outen, Tom Fletcher, Matt Willis, Vanessa White, Nathan Sykes, Nicholas Hoult, Lashana Lynch, and Lily Cole, among many others.
In 2005, she was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the Queen’s Birthday Honors in recognition of her contribution to the arts.
Young’s legacy endures – her school remains a magnet for young performers aged 10 to 16, blending the academic curriculum with intensive training in acting, singing and dance. It is known for its pedigree in producing stars across stage, screen, and music.
Tributes have been pouring in for Young.
The Olivier Awards posted on X: “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.”
DJ Tony Blackburn posted: “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 added: “What a woman, what a family, what a legacy! Sending everyone so much love and support. She was always so lovely to me and will cherish memories forever.”
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