In tribute: Dame Patricia Routledge, 1929 – 2025

The RNCM would like to pay tribute to the distinguished British actress and star of musical theatre Dame Patricia Routledge, who has died today aged 96.

The popular star of BBC sitcom Keeping Up Appearances was awarded an Honorary Membership of the RNCM (HonRNCM) in 2017. A lifelong lover of music and stage, she was also honorary president of The Association of English Singers and Speakers (AESS) and sponsor of the AESS National English Song Prize – now known as The Patricia Routledge National English Song Competition.

Her role as Hyacinth Bucket from 1990 – 1995 made her an icon of British comedy and she was internationally celebrated as well as BAFTA nominated for her portrayal of the social-climbing housewife. She is also remembered for outstanding performances in Alan Bennett’s A Woman of No Importance and Talking Heads: A Lady of Letters, as well as her character Kitty in Victoria Wood: As Seen on TV.

Dame Patricia, who was born and raised in the North West, was honoured by The late Queen Elizabeth II in the 2017 New Year’s Honours for her services to entertainment and charity.