It is with great sadness that we share that Diane Price passed away Wednesday, March 13, 2024. She passed quietly, surrounded by family. Diane was an actress, dancer, singer, theatre director, and the founder of the Young People’s Teen Musical Theatre Company. She was also a loving mother, grandmother, and mother-in-law.
Diane was born in San Francisco on June 26, 1935, and spent the majority of her life in the City. She attended Washington High School just up the street from her family home and then went to the University of California, Berkeley where she got her Bachelor’s degree in Dramatic Art. She was very active while there, performing in many musicals.
In the early 1980’s Diane began teaching Tap for the Drama and Dance division of the San Francisco Recreation and Parks Department. After becoming familiar with the programs offered by the department, she put together a plan for a musical theatre program for children and teens. In 1984, the Young People’s Musical Theatre Co was born. (“teen” was added later). Diane staged nearly 90 shows before retiring in 2005, each of which touched the lives of hundreds of teenagers – many of whom credit the Company with playing a formative role in their development. Now, 40 years, later, the Company continues to thrive with the support of the San Francisco Recreation and Parks Department and the Friends of the Company 501(c)3.
Funeral services were held on March 18 at Salem Memorial Park in Colma where she rests peacefully in the company of her parents. A celebration of life gathering will be held; details will be forthcoming. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Friends of the Company at YPTMTC.org. Memories of Diane can be shared at DianePrice.org where photos and an obituary have been posted.