Richard Stilgoe is the Founder of the Orpheus Centre and continues to be actively involved as a member of the Board of Trustees and in short courses and shows.  Richard is extremely popular with the students, staff and supporters of the centre. 

After 40 years in show business as a composer, songwriter and entertainer, Richard is remembered for adding humour and tuneful gaiety on television in Today, Nationwide and That’s Life and for his collaboration with Andrew Lloyd Webber, writing lyrics for Cats, Starlight Express and Phantom of the Opera.   

Appointed High Sheriff of Surrey (the county of his birth) in 1998, he grew up in Liverpool. Merseyside rocked and so did Tony Snow (aka Richard Stilgoe) and the Blizzards. They were regulars at the Cavern Club, playing twice with the Beatles. Richard is Chair of the National Foundation for Youth Music and presents the Music for Youth School Proms every year at the Royal Albert Hall as well as being actively involved in other charitable causes and regular local events.