Anna Valerie Scher MBE (26 December 1944 – 12 November 2023) was an Irish-born British teacher known for her contributions to drama education. ^[1]

Early life and education

Born in Cork, Ireland, she was the eldest of four daughters of Eric, a dentist of Lithuanian-Jewish descent, and Claire (née Hurwitz). ^{[1] [2]} Scher was educated at St Angela's Convent in Cork, where she was the only Jewish student and developed an early interest in tap-dancing and stage performance. ^[1] Her early years were influenced by her involvement in the Cork Opera House until its destruction by fire in 1955. ^[2]

In 1959, the Scher family relocated to Hove, East Sussex, a move initiated by her father's desire to integrate into a larger Jewish community. ^{[1] [2]} This transition presented Scher with new cultural and academic challenges, particularly at Hove Grammar School. ^[2] Her education continued at Hove Grammar School and Brighton School of Music and Art. ^[1] The period was further marked by familial conflict over Scher's career aspirations, culminating in her mother's departure from the family. ^{[1] [2]}

Career

Scher's career in education began after attending Trent Park College of Education. ^[2] She started as a teacher at Ecclesbourne Junior School in Islington, where she introduced drama classes. ^{[2] [3]} These classes grew in popularity and included future actors Pauline Quirke and Linda Robson among their attendees. ^[2] Confronted with a choice between her teaching role and her drama classes, Scher opted to leave the school and dedicate herself to drama education. ^[2]

Scher established the Anna Scher Theatre in 1975. ^[1] The theatre was distinctive for its lack of auditions and lengthy waiting list, which at one point reached 5,000 names. ^[1] In 2000, Scher experienced severe depression and stepped back from her role at the theatre. ^{[1] [3]} When she attempted to return in 2002, she was prevented from doing so by the board of trustees, who had appointed a new principal. She then taught drama classes in a church hall. ^[1]

Scher was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 2013. ^{[1] [3]}

Personal life

Sher was married to Charles Verrall from 1976 until his death, a month before her own in 2023. ^{[1] [3]} They had a son, John. ^[1]

References