A STAGE school pioneer who discovered stars including Amy Winehouse, Rita Ora and Billie Piper has died aged 86.
Sylvia Young passed away peacefully this morning surrounded by family.
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Her daughter, Frances Ruffelle, confirmed the sad news with a touching tribute.
The West End star said: “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.”
Tributes have poured in for Syliva, who founded the £14,400 a year theatre school in London.
Radio star Tony Blackburn wrote: “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 – I am here if you need me.
“She was always so lovely to me and will cherish memories forever.”
The Sylvia Young started off holding part time classes in the east end of London.
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It attracted a larger client base and re-located to Marleybone.
Eventually, the theatre school’s success saw it move to a converted church in Westminster.
It is co-ed and offers both academic and vocational classes for students aged 10 to 16 years.
Famous SYTS students include Amy Winehouse, Denise Van Outen, Billie Piper, former Spice Girl Emma Bunton, Alex Pettyfer, Isabel Hodgins, Kara Tointon, Lacey Turner and McFly member Tom Fletcher.
Busted bassist Matt Willis, The Saturdays’ Vanessa White, and The Wanted member Nathan Sykes, also attended the school.
Sylvia leaves behind her two daughters, Frances Ruffelle and Alison Ruffelle.
She is also remembered by her grandchildren Eliza Doolittle, Phoenix and Coral, as well as her great grandson, Felix.
The theatre school founder was awarded an OBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List of 2005 for her services to the arts industry.
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