Elizabeth Smith, Juilliard Drama Founding Faculty and Vocal Coach to Stars, Dies at 91

Elizabeth Smith, a founding faculty member of the Juilliard School's Drama Division and a renowned vocal coach who worked with Broadway stars, died on August 7, 2026, at the age of 91. Smith was known for her unique approach to auditions, as illustrated by actress Laura Linney's recollection: during Linney's Juilliard audition in 1990, Smith stared at the floor, but Linney later understood that Smith was listening intently to her voice rather than looking at her. Smith's career spanned decades, and she was instrumental in shaping the vocal training of numerous actors. Her death was reported by The New York Times on August 7, 2026. Smith's legacy includes her contributions to Juilliard's Drama Division, where she helped establish the curriculum and mentored generations of performers. Her passing marks a significant loss to the theatrical community, as she was celebrated for her dedication to the craft of voice and her influence on both stage and screen actors.