An electrician by profession and enthusiastic thespian by choice, he went from pushing buttons and plugging things in, to making deals, building relationships and friendships – all on the city’s behalf – as a way of making things happen, and building new audiences in a growing city. Sutherland died peacefully at home in early April, with his wife and lifetime companion Lorraine Sutherland by his side. He was 63. Theatre bought the couple together, and it would be a constant source of inspiration, love and creativity which kept them strong over a long marriage. It was a deep bond and understanding which would see theatre items hastily repaired at home or home items hastily rushed to the theatre by Richard. When Sir Ian McKellen came through Hamilton in aid of Christchurch’s 2011 earthquake, Richard provided the only throne-like chair he knew of… straight from the couple’s lounge.