| Variations of Name | William Henry Ralph Reader |
| Biography | William Henry Ralph Reader CBE (25 May 1903-18 May 1982), known as Ralph Reader, was a British actor, author, theatrical producer and songwriter, best known forcreating and producing the original Gang Show for 42 years, a variety entertainment presented by members of the Scouting Movement, and for many years leading the community singing at FA Cup Finals.
After leaving school, Reader went to America in 1919 and became a chorus boy on Broadway, then a dancer, dance producer and director. Reader produced 19 shows on Broadway, 33 West End musicals and directed 143 productions and pageants at the Royal Albert Hall including the annual Festival of Remembrance. He appeared in films, wrte and acted in his own play, prodcued pantomimes and instituted a light opera company in 1950.
Reader retired from the Gang Show in 1974 and would publish Gang Show music and sketches, books on scouting and an auto-biography 'It's Been Terrific.' |