Theatre school honours "First Lady of Musical Theatre" (From Haringey Independent)

Mountview Academy of Theatrical Arts, in Wood Green, honours Elaine Paige

3:25pm Friday 7th September 2012 in News By Bruce Thain

An actress who ‘changed the face of the modern musical’ has been awarded a honorary degree from a performing arts school in Wood Green.

Elaine Paige was awarded the honour from the Mountview Academy of Theatrical Arts, based in Clarendon Road, in recognition of her contribution to the musical theatre profession.

The ceremony took place at St Paul’s Church, Covent Garden as part of a joint graduation with the University of East Anglia.

Miss Paige is famous for her role as Eva Peron in the first production of ‘Evita’ in 1978 and as Grizabella in ‘Cats’ for which she had a Top 10 hit with the song Memory.

She said “I am thrilled to be awarded an Honorary Degree by Mountview.

“Being part of a ceremony at which so many talented young people are starting out with a career in the theatre made it particularly special.

“I have been fortunate to receive many theatre industry awards during my career but this one really is very special and I’m very honoured.”

Principal of Mountview, Sue Robertson, said: “Elaine Paige is an actress and recording artist who has, quite simply, changed the face of the modern musical and we are delighted to celebrate her achievements today.

“She is indeed “The First Lady of Musical Theatre” and this honour could not be more richly deserved.”