A YOUTH theatre has donated a percentage of profits from a recent show in memory of a former local opera singer.

Former professional soprano, Zuilmah Hopkins, 87, from Manor House, Great Ayton, died earlier this year.

Also known as Zuilmah Winterschladen, she sang with the Glyndebourne Opera Company and sang on national radio and television under her professional name of Zuilmah Hopkins.

She also taught several well-known singers from the region, including Sarah Sweeting, resident singer at Sydney Opera House and actress Liz Carling. Mrs Winterschladen worked as a singing teacher until two weeks before her death.

She had coached many residents in the area, including members of Crash Bang Wallop (CBW) Youth Theatre, based in Stokesley.

As a result, the group dedicated its recent production of Miss Saigon, shown at Northallerton Forum, to the well-loved tutor.

They also donated 25 per cent of programme sales to The Stroke Association, chosen by her family, which amounted to £126.50.

CBW founder and director, Dan Brookes, said she was a “a very special lady” who gave them all an enjoyment of performing.

“We were very lucky to have had, living locally, such a talented teacher and performer who enjoyed sharing her knowledge and experience to pupils of all ages,” he said.

“She came to see all her students in not just our shows but every show in which they performed and we all valued her opinions of the performances. I know she had been looking forward to coming to see Miss Saigon. Her presence in the audience was very much missed.”

CBW’s next show is Oklahoma, which will run at Northallerton Forum, from July 3 to July 6.