Performer

Richard Usher is a passionate storyteller and seasoned performer, with a deep love for the art of classic radio – the “theatre of the mind.” His career is a testament to his dedication to bringing stories to life, whether through voice-over work, stage performances, or film.

In 2024, Richard kicked off the year by lending his voice to some of the great classics of literature for the Every Cherry imprint, a project that perfectly aligns with his love for timeless stories. For Halloween 2024 Richard returned to live storytelling, taking on the chilling role of narrator for Bram Stoker’s The Judge’s House. Presented by the NeuNoir Theatre Company, this spine-tingling tale of terror was staged at the Wollaston Studio, with a further four sold out performances at the historic Birmingham Back to Backs, and the atmospheric Greyfriars House & Garden, both National Trust properties. Audiences enjoyed this thrilling experience as Richard’s voice filled these evocative spaces, bringing the horror to life.

Last year, Richard captivated audiences with his opening scare story for the 2023 UK Ghost Story Festival, showcasing his versatility by seamlessly transitioning to comedy shortly after. He reprised his role as Peter Sellers for the Birmingham Comedy Festival, starring in a new stage production of The Goon Show! at the Symphony Hall in Birmingham – a performance that was met with acclaim.

Richard’s deep affection for classic radio and storytelling has led him to tour theatres with the first-ever stage adaptations of beloved BBC Radio comedy shows. He portrayed Peter Sellers in The Goon Show! and took on dual roles as Dennis Price and Michael Bates in The Navy Lark!. In 2017, Richard stepped into the shoes of his hero, Peter Sellers, once again for the world premiere of Larry Stephens’ Vacant Lot, a long-lost sitcom originally created for Tony Hancock. This was followed by the prestigious London premiere of The Lost Hancocks at The British Library in 2018, where Richard performed alongside notable talents such as Janice Connolly, Linda Hargreaves, and James Hurn.

On the big screen, Richard showcased his range in 2016, appearing as the assassin’s handler, Charlie, in the award-winning short film Dead Meet. His ability to embody such diverse characters across different media is a testament to his versatility and skill.

With a career steeped in the rich traditions of storytelling and classic radio, Richard Usher continues to enchant and entertain audiences, bringing stories to life in ways that resonate deeply with the mind and imagination.