Hairdresser Nikki Catelotti was overcome with emotion yesterday as she spoke about the shock death of musical theatre great Rob Guest.

She has been cutting his hair for years and can’t believe the adopted son of Dubbo is gone.

Mr Guest, 57, had been starring as the Wizard of Oz in the hit musical Wicked. He suffered a massive stroke while relaxing at home in Melbourne with his partner Kellie Dickerson, a music director and former student of Dubbo South High School.

“Rob routinely came into the salon during his regular visits to Dubbo,’’ Ms Catelotti said.

“He was such a beautiful man who never expected or wanted any fuss. Rob loved the genuine, friendly approach of Dubbo people and even had his car serviced here.’’

Ms Guest and Ms Dickerson took time out of their busy schedule to attend a performance of the St John’s College musical Footloose in April.

After congratulating teachers and students they relaxed in the school’s music centre and spoke about their theatre experiences.

“It was wonderful for such a big star to give his time so generously,’’ drama teacher Elissa Burden said.

“Mr Guest was totally unaffected, there were no airs or graces.

“He posed for photographs with the kids, talked to them so easily and wrote words of encouragement that are displayed in pride of place on the music room wall.’’

Dubbo Theatre Company producer Chris Bray was in Melbourne on Wednesday night to see Wicked and expected to see Mr Guest on stage.

“Prior to taking our seats we heard he had suffered a stroke,’’ she said.

“It was an incredible shock and cast members were visibly affected on stage.

“Rob performed with Dubbo Theatre Company on a number of occasions and was always so positive and welcoming.

“He felt a real connection with Dubbo through his relationship with Kellie and understood the restrictions of our performances venues.

“They were both excited when Dubbo City Council finally approved the new theatre and spoke about performing there when building work was finished.’’

Mr Guest and Ms Dickerson had been together for 10 years since working together on The Sound of Music.

As music director of Wicked she stood in the orchestra pit every night watching Mr Guest on stage.

Long-time friend John Frost, the producer of Wicked, said there had been no signs Mr Guest was ill.

A funeral service will be held next week.

heather.crosby@

ruralpress.com