BIOGRAPHY
Richard Gauntlett is a distinguished British actor, singer, writer, and director, celebrated for his extensive contributions to theatre, opera, and variety entertainment. In 2024, he was honoured as King Rat of the Grand Order of Water Rats, a prestigious showbusiness fraternity and charity established in 1889.
Stage and Variety Career
Richard's career commenced with a role in the musical Barnum, performing alongside Michael Crawford at Manchester's Opera House and London's Victoria Palace. He later returned to the production, portraying the Ringmaster and eventually taking over the lead role of P.T. Barnum. His versatility has enabled him to excel in various genres, ranging from grand opera to circus, and from West End musicals to vaudeville.
In the West End, Richard originated the role of LeFou in Disney's Beauty and the Beast at the Dominion Theatre, remaining with the production throughout its entire run. He also portrayed Timon in The Lion King and participated in the UK tour of Cats. His operatic performances include roles such as Puck in Britten’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Venice's La Fenice Opera House and Cupid in Masquerade at Austria's Bregenz Opera Festival, which later transferred to London's Royal Opera House .
Gilbert & Sullivan and Opera
A seasoned comic baritone, Richard is a resident performer with the National Gilbert & Sullivan Opera Company. His notable roles include Ko-Ko in The Mikado, the title character in The Sorcerer, and performances in The Yeomen of the Guard and The Pirates of Penzance. His portrayals are acclaimed for their wit, vocal excellence, and adherence to traditional patter song delivery.
Pantomime and Writing
A stalwart of British pantomime, Richard has been a fixture at Norwich Theatre Royal for over 19 years, often writing, directing, and starring in productions. His portrayals, including roles like the Fairy Godmother in Cinderella, are renowned for their humour and heartfelt performances. Beyond the stage, he has contributed as a writer for ITV's The Sooty Show and advises on traditional pantomime routines for leading production companies.
Variety and Television
Richard's talents extend to a variety of performances on international cruise lines such as Cunard, Holland America, and Royal Caribbean. On television, he appeared as the villain Urak in the Doctor Who serial Time and the Rani and served as a stunt double in the film Who Framed Roger Rabbit.
King Rat and Philanthropy
In 2024, Richard was elected King Rat of the Grand Order of Water Rats, reflecting his esteemed status in the entertainment industry and his commitment to charitable endeavours. He continues to serve in this role in 2025, exemplifying the organisation's motto of "Philanthropy, Conviviality, and Social Intercourse"
Richard Gauntlett's multifaceted career and dedication to the performing arts have solidified his reputation as a cherished figure in British entertainment.
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