THE theatrical community is in mourning following the death of one of York's finest actors, John White.

John, who has died of cancer at the age of 76, was a stalwart of the York Mystery Plays for many years.

His widow, Dorothy, said he became the first York resident in 400 years to play Jesus Christ in the 1969 production, when he shared the role - previously performed by professionals - with another actor.

He was also involved for many years in the York Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society.

But she said he later went on to become a professional actor, working with the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) and the National Theatre Company under the stage name of Richard Conway.

He was once understudy to Omar Sharif in the West End production of The Sleeping Prince, and once took Mr Sharif's place when he fell sick with a chest infection.

Mr White had performed in the RSC alongside actors such as Anthony Sher.

She revealed that he turned professional at the invitation of the Mystery Plays' artistic director one year, Patrick Garland, who had recognised his talent.

He had worked as a professional actor for 20 years until being forced to retire in 1999 at the age of 70 after developing cancer of the oesophagus.

After successful treatment, he had renewed his involvement with the amateur stage in York, directing the York Shakespeare Project's first play, Richard III, and performing with the York Settlement Players.

His final performance with them was last October in Cat On A Hot Tin Roof.

Mrs White said her husband's cancer returned last autumn, and this time it had been inoperable.

A Requiem Mass will place at 11.30am on Wednesday, at St Margaret Clitherow RC Church, in Haxby, which many people are expected to attend.

Updated: 10:25 Friday, April 21, 2006