Sylvia Barter

Sylvia Barter was an English actress who is best known for her roles in “Emma,” “Separate Tables,” and “Where Angels Fear to Tread.” She had a long and varied career in theater and television, captivating audiences with her performances.

Personal and Family Life

Sylvia Theadora Essex Barter was born on April 13, 1912, in Lewisham, London. She trained as a singer at the Royal College of Music but chose to focus on family after marrying Paul Spencer in 1939, with whom she had one child. After their divorce following World War II, she worked as an assistant house mistress and a teacher to support her son, Nicholas.

Career

In the early 1960s, Sylvia returned to the stage and performed with the Osiris Repertory Company, taking Shakespeare to schools and convents. She later appeared in numerous productions across various theaters and made significant television appearances, including her role as Daisy Pinfold in “Crossroads.” Her stage and screen credits showcase her versatility and longevity in the industry.

Death and Legacy

Sylvia Barter passed away on February 23, 2007, in Denville Hall, an actors’ retirement home in London, at the age of 94. Her familial connections to theatre and her vast knowledge of Edwardian etiquette made her an invaluable asset in period productions. She is fondly remembered by her peers for her kindness and as a confidante in the dressing rooms.

Filmography