Director Claire van Kampen, a trailblazing figure in the arts, has passed away at the age of 71.
Her death occurred on Saturday morning in the German town of Kassel, coinciding with her husband Sir Mark Rylance’s 65th birthday.
Van Kampen had been battling cancer, and her passing marks the end of a life filled with immense creativity and contributions to the world of music, theatre, and film.
In a statement shared on behalf of Sir Mark and her daughter Juliet, the family paid tribute to her as “one of the funniest and most inspiring women we have ever known.”
The family’s statement reflected the profound impact Van Kampen had on their lives and the lives of those who knew her.
“We thank her for imbuing our lives with her magic, music, laughter, and love,” the statement read.
They added a poignant farewell: “Ring the bell, sound the trumpet’s reverie, something is done, something is beginning. One of the great wise ones has passed.”
These words capture the legacy of a woman whose artistry and wisdom enriched the world, leaving behind a deep sense of loss among her loved ones and admirers.
Van Kampen was a renowned concert pianist, composer, playwright, and theatre director, celebrated for her innovative contributions to the arts.
Her association with Shakespeare’s Globe spanned two decades, where she worked in various roles, shaping its artistic direction.
Notably, she broke barriers as the first female musical director of the Royal Shakespeare Company and the Royal National Theatre.
Her work extended beyond theatre to include radio, television, and film soundtracks, demonstrating her versatility and artistic depth.
Her personal life was marked by both joy and tragedy. Before her marriage to Sir Mark Rylance, she was married to architect Christopher van Kampen, with whom she had two daughters, Juliet and Nataasha.
Tragically, her youngest daughter, Nataasha, a filmmaker, passed away at the age of 28 in 2012 due to a brain haemorrhage.
Despite these profound losses, Van Kampen remained a source of strength and inspiration, channeling her experiences into her art and her relationships.
Van Kampen’s connection with Sir Mark began at the National Theatre, where she served as the musical director for a play in which he performed.
Their shared passion for the arts blossomed into a lifelong partnership, both personal and professional.
As the world mourns her loss, her extraordinary career and enduring legacy continue to resonate, reminding us of the indelible mark she left on the cultural landscape.
