David BaleThe British actor Christopher Cazenove, who has died aged 64, was a regular at Norwich Theatre Royal and today its chief executive paid tribute to a 'friend'.David Bale

The British actor Christopher Cazenove, who has died aged 64, was a regular at Norwich Theatre Royal and today its chief executive paid tribute to a 'friend'.

Mr Cazenove's last appearances at the Theatre Royal were in the comedy-drama Home Truths in June 1997, and he also starred in the 1997-1998 pantomime Aladdin opposite Nicholas McAuliffe, Desmond Barrit and Rikki Jay.

The TV star, whose mother was a member of Norfolk's Gurney family, was due to play The Narrator in the Rocky Horror Show, which runs at Norwich Theatre Royal on June 7-12.

Peter Wilson, Norwich Theatre Royal chief executive, said: 'Christopher, who appeared at the Theatre Royal twice in the past few years, was also and primarily a friend.

'His personal qualities of intelligence, generosity and thoughtfulness shone through all his performances and made him doubly attractive.

'He was grateful to the public for his terrific career and I never knew him turn away a fan or refuse an autograph. He was an example to us all, and we shall miss him terribly.'

Mr Cazenove, who was best known for his role in the glitzy 1980s American television series Dynasty, died on April 7 after losing a battle against blood poisoning.

He starred in a string of films and TV shows during his career but will be best remembered for his role on Dynasty.

No decision has yet been made on re-casting Mr Cazenove's role in the Rocky Horror Show.