Richard Skipper – Entertainer, Storyteller, Legacy Keeper

Discover Richard Skipper’s celebrated shows & workshops

Richard Skipper is an award-winning entertainer, storyteller, and legacy artist whose career spans more than 46 years. Best known for his celebrated tributes to Hello, Dolly! and his longtime friendship with Carol Channing, Richard has performed across the U.S. and the U.K., bringing joy, insight, and spontaneity to every stage he graces.

A former impersonator turned truth-teller, Richard now blends memoir, music, and audience connection into one-of-a-kind live experiences. His current work is less about “performing” and more about hosting the room — inviting audiences into something honest, unscripted, and unforgettable. Whether celebrating Broadway history or sharing stories from his own journey, Richard builds a space where legacy meets presence — and where everyone leaves feeling seen.

Show Descriptions

Everything You’ve Always Wanted to Know About Richard Skipper (But Were Afraid to Ask)
An unscripted, audience-driven cabaret evening that plays like a living memoir. In this one-of-a-kind experience, the audience submits questions and Richard responds in real time — through story, song, and spontaneous connection. No two shows are alike. It’s part talk show, part tribute, part party — and all heart.

Richard Skipper Celebrates Hello, Dolly!
A joyful, tuneful tribute to one of Broadway’s most beloved musicals and its original star, Carol Channing. Through story and song, Richard shares the legacy of Hello, Dolly!, revisits his personal connection to the show, and celebrates the spirit of theatrical joy that continues to inspire audiences across generations.

Carol Channing Tribute

Skipper is perhaps best known for his tribute performances as Carol Channing, the iconic star of Hello, Dolly! His portrayal of Channing earned him widespread acclaim, and he became one of the most well-known Carol Channing impersonators in the entertainment world. He performed as Channing in various venues across the country, including cabarets and theaters, paying homage to her with a combination of humor, reverence, and a deep understanding of her career and personality.

In addition to his performances as Channing, Skipper became a close friend of the Broadway legend, who personally endorsed his tribute. His shows often celebrated Channing’s life and work, focusing on her legendary Broadway career and her impact on American musical theater.

Richard Skipper Celebrates

Richard Skipper is an entertainer, interviewer, and live performance historian who has spent 46 years celebrating the people and stories behind the spotlight. From cabaret to Broadway, his work blends joy, music, and meaningful conversation — all rooted in his belief that live entertainment builds connection and preserves legacy.

Through his platform Richard Skipper Celebrates and his website CallonDolly.com, he has interviewed thousands of artists and created tributes to icons like Carol Channing and Jerry Herman. In 2025, Richard stepped away from social media to focus on deeper community-building — through live performance, newsletters, and audience-driven storytelling.

Whether he’s on stage, hosting a panel, or leading a talkback, Richard creates space for people to feel seen, heard, and uplifted.

Career as a Speaker and Writer

Beyond his cabaret work, Skipper has also established himself as a writer and public speaker. He frequently gives talks and lectures on Broadway history and the lives of famous performers. His work is often praised for its insight and warmth, as well as its commitment to preserving the rich legacy of American theater and performance.

Awards and Recognition

Throughout his career, Richard Skipper has earned numerous accolades, including MAC (Manhattan Association of Cabarets & Clubs) Awards and other honors for his contributions to the cabaret scene. His performances and tributes have garnered a loyal following and praise from

Career Highlights:

  • Winner of the Turner Classic Movies Classic Film Festival Competition.
  • Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella DVD Release with Lesley Ann Warren, Barnes & Noble
  • Performer Julie Budd CD Release interview and promotion, Barnes & Noble.
  • Produced and Hosted 50th anniversary celebration of the Hello, Dolly! at Sardi’s NY with original cast members.

Awards:

  • Four MAC Awards (Manhattan Association of Cabarets and Clubs)
  • Bistro Award
  • Cabaret Scenes Magazine; ‘Top of the Century Premiere Cabaret Acts’
  • Cabaret Hotline; ‘Top Ten Cabaret Performers’

Richard continues to raise money for many worthwhile causes especially Arts in Education, The Entertainment Community (formerly-The Actors Fund), and GLAAD.