June 21st: Today's Feature

June

Yvonne Jones Brewster OBE, formerly known as Yvonne Clarke, was born on October 7, 1938. She is a Jamaican actress, theatre director, and businesswoman recognised for portraying Ruth Harding in the BBC series Doctors. Additionally, she played a key role in establishing the theatre companies Talawa in the UK and The Barn in Jamaica.

Biography

Yvonne Brewster, born in Kingston, Jamaica, discovered her passion for acting at the age of 16 after watching a French play at the Ward Theatre. Inspired by the performance of Mona Hammond), she expressed her desire to follow in her footsteps to her father. This pivotal moment set her on a path towards a remarkable career in the world of theatre.

In 1956, Brewster traveled to the UK to pursue her studies in drama at Rose Bruford College, where she made history as the first Black woman drama student in the country. Despite being discouraged on her first day about her prospects in the British theatrical scene, she persevered and excelled, later earning a distinction in Drama and Mime from the Royal Academy of Music.

Upon returning to Jamaica, Brewster dedicated herself to teaching Drama and co-founded The Barn in Kingston in 1965, marking the establishment of Jamaica's first professional theatre company. Her contributions to the arts extended beyond the Caribbean, as she later ventured back to England in the early 1970s, where she made significant strides in radio, television, and stage directing.

In 1985, Brewster played a pivotal role in the founding of Talawa Theatre Company alongside Mona Hammond, Carmen Munroe, and Inigo Espejel, securing funding from the Greater London Council. Serving as Talawa's artistic director until 2003, she directed groundbreaking productions such as C. L. R. James's The Black Jacobins and the first all-black production of Shakespeare's Antony and Cleopatra in 1991, showcasing her talent and commitment to diversity in theatre.

As a patron of the Clive Barker Centre for Theatrical Innovation, Yvonne Brewster continues to inspire and support the next generation of artists, leaving an indelible mark on the world of theatre with her pioneering spirit and dedication to promoting inclusivity and excellence in the performing arts.

Marriage

Yvonne tied the knot after coming back to England from Jamaica in 1971, and she and her spouse currently call Florence their home.

Honours & Legacy

Yvonne Brewster's contributions and achievements were recognised and honoured on multiple occasions. In the 1993 New Year Honours, she was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE), a prestigious recognition of her outstanding service. Additionally, in 2001, she was bestowed with an honorary doctorate from the esteemed Open University, further highlighting her exceptional accomplishments.

Not only was Brewster recognised within the academic realm, but she also received accolades within the theatre industry. In 2005, the University of London's Central School of Speech and Drama awarded her an honorary fellowship, acknowledging her significant role in the advancement of British theatre. This recognition showcased her dedication and contributions to the development of the performing arts in the country.

Brewster's impact extended beyond her professional achievements, as she was also celebrated for her influence and representation within the Black community. In 2003, she was featured on the list of 100 Great Black Britons, a testament to her significant contributions to society. Furthermore, in 2013, she was named one of the BBC's 100 Women, highlighting her as a role model and inspiration for women across various fields.

The National Black Theatre Festival recognised Brewster's remarkable career by presenting her with a living legend award in 2001. This prestigious accolade acknowledged her exceptional talent and contributions to the theatre industry, solidifying her status as a revered figure within the performing arts community. Overall, Brewster's numerous honours and recognitions reflect her immense impact and influence in both the artistic and societal realms.